SNRIs
Also known as: serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, SNRI antidepressants
SNRIs are a group of antidepressants whose NHS examples are duloxetine and venlafaxine. They act on both serotonin and noradrenaline. The NHS says venlafaxine is used to treat depression and sometimes anxiety and panic attacks, and duloxetine is used for depression, anxiety and nerve pain. NHS formulary guidance says venlafaxine and duloxetine can also increase heart rate and blood pressure.
- Also called
- serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, SNRI antidepressants
Mechanism of action
SNRIs are thought to work by increasing the amount of the mood-enhancing chemicals serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain.
Members of the class
Members with a page on this site are linked.
Cautions
- The NHS says antidepressants are not addictive, but withdrawal symptoms can occur if they are stopped suddenly or a dose is missed.
- A Scottish NHS guide says venlafaxine carries a higher risk of withdrawal effects than other antidepressants.
- NHS formulary guidance says venlafaxine and duloxetine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, and the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service says they can cause dose-related rises in blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms.
- The routes to help for suicidal thoughts are 999 if in immediate danger, NHS 111 (mental health option) and Samaritans on 116 123.
Class warnings
- Stopping an SNRI suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, so the dose is usually lowered gradually. UK
Class interactions
| With | Effect | Source |
|---|---|---|
| St John's wort, MAOI antidepressants, tramadol | The NHS lists these among the herbal remedies and medicines that can raise the chance of side effects with duloxetine. | UK |
| Warfarin and other blood-thinning medicines | The NHS lists these among the medicines to take care with alongside duloxetine. | UK |
Open the Drug Interaction Checker
Connected pages in detail
What each linked page on Anatomy Nexus covers, in a line, for SNRIs.
Medications
- Duloxetine Duloxetine is an antidepressant medicine that is also used for anxiety and nerve pain.
- Venlafaxine Venlafaxine is an antidepressant called a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), used for depression.
Guides and news
- MHRA: venlafaxine and DAT scan results The MHRA says venlafaxine can lead to false positive DAT scan readings, and the ioflupane product information now includes this interaction.