SNRI medications for depression and anxiety - online prescription available

Our experienced doctors at PlushCare frequently prescribe various SNRIs to address diverse patient needs, ensuring personalized and effective care. Several generic SNRIs are also available, which can be equivalent in efficacy to their brand-name counterparts but often more cost-effective.  

• Venlafaxine (Effexor): Effexor (venlafaxine) is an SNRI that is often prescribed to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. 

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Cymbalta (duloxetine) is another commonly used SNRI indicated for conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. 

• Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq): Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is an alternative to venlafaxine and is used to treat major depressive disorder. 

• Milnacipran: Milnacipran is a generic form of Savella primarily used in the treatment of fibromyalgia. It functions by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, potentially contributing to pain relief and improved mood. While it's an SNRI, it's not FDA-approved for the treatment of depression in the United States. 

• Levomilnacipran (Fetzima): Levomilnacipran is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It is similar to milnacipran and inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, but may have significant side effects including increased blood pressure so is often not a first or second choice for medications of this type. 

In comparison to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), SNRIs offer a more selective action on serotonin and norepinephrine. Doctors generally prefer SNRIs because they are more effective, better tolerated, and safer than both TCAs. Fewer side effects mean better compliance and overall treatment success.  

• Fewer side effects: SNRIs are associated with fewer anticholinergic side effects than older antidepressants. Anticholinergic effects can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and confusion. The reduced incidence of these effects with SNRIs makes them a more tolerable option for many patients, especially the elderly or those with certain pre-existing conditions. 

• Fewer drug interactions: SNRIs have fewer drug interactions, making them easier to integrate into treatment plans that include other medications. 

• Weight and metabolic effects: Unlike some other antidepressants that can lead to significant weight gain or metabolic changes, SNRIs are generally considered to have a neutral or less pronounced impact on weight and metabolism. This is crucial for long-term treatment, as weight gain can be a deterrent for some patients.  

• Sexual side effects: While sexual dysfunction can still occur with SNRIs, the degree and frequency are often less compared to other antidepressants. Managing sexual side effects is important for maintaining quality of life and treatment adherence. 

• Sedation and sleep disturbance: SNRIs tend to cause less sedation than TCAs, which can benefit patients who need to maintain alertness during the day. However, they can sometimes lead to sleep disturbances. 

• Cardiovascular effects: SNRIs do not have the same level of cardiovascular effects (like heart rhythm changes) seen with some older antidepressants, making them a safer choice for patients with heart conditions.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are both classes of medications commonly used to treat mental health conditions, primarily depression and anxiety disorders. Despite their similarities in treating these conditions, they function differently and have profiles that differentiate them.  

If you are pregnant, be careful using SNRIs. Some SNRIs may be associated with certain pregnancy risks, and alternative treatment options may need to be explored. Your doctor will help you weigh potential benefits against potential risks to the developing fetus. 

Overdosing on SNRIs can have severe consequences and require prompt medical attention. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an overdose is crucial: 

• Serotonin syndrome: Excessive serotonin levels can lead to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, muscle rigidity, and, in severe cases, seizures. 

• Gastrointestinal distress: Overdosing may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms can indicate a potential overdose. 

• Cardiovascular effects: Increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms are potential cardiovascular effects of an overdose. 

• Neurological symptoms: Overdosing may result in dizziness, tremors, and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness. Neurological symptoms should be taken seriously. 

In the case of a suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Do not hesitate to contact emergency services or a poison control center. Overdosing on SNRIs requires urgent intervention to mitigate potential complications.