MedicinePOMEssential

Venlafaxine

An SNRI antidepressant used to treat depression and other mental health conditions.

Clinical information

Common uses

depression
anxiety and panic attacks
menopause hot flushes in women with breast cancer

Common side effects

headaches
feeling or being sick
feeling dizzy or drowsy
dry mouth
problems sleeping

Cautions

do not stop suddenly — withdrawal symptoms; dose reduced gradually
may not suit people with heart disease, epilepsy or glaucoma
get urgent help for serotonin syndrome or suicidal thoughts
best not to drink alcohol

Interactions

MAOI antidepressants (e.g. moclobemide)
warfarin, apixaban and other anticoagulants
NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen
St John's wort — do not use

Pregnancy: can be used if needed — lowest effective dose

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: NHS Medicines A–Z, nhs.uk/medicines/venlafaxine (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations3

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Venlafaxine	Tablet	25 mg	—	POM
Venlafexine	Tablet	37.5 mg	—	POM
Venlafexine	Tablet	75 mg	—	POM