SNRIs = Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors

Question 1

Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors a.k.a.

Answer 1

SNRIs

Question 2

SNRIs a.k.a.

Answer 2

Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors

Question 3

Generic drug names
SNRIs

Answer 3

Desvenlafaxine
Duloxetine
Venlafaxine

Question 4

Indication
SNRIs

Answer 4

Major depression

Question 5

MOA
SNRIs

Answer 5

Inhibit serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake.

Question 6

Precautions
SNRIs

Answer 6

• Bipolar disorder—all antidepressants may provoke a manic episode when used in people with bipolar disorder
• High risk of bleeding
• SNRIs may cause palpitations, tachycardia, increased BP and orthostatic hypotension
• Serotonin toxicity

Question 7

Adverse effects
SNRIs

Answer 7

nausea, dry mouth, constipation, yawning, sweating, dizziness, increased BP (infrequent with duloxetine), weakness, sexual dysfunction

Question 8

Practice points
SNRIs

Answer 8

• check BP before starting treatment
• increased suicidal thoughts and behaviour
• Do not stop suddenly

Question 9

Drug class and indication

Desvenlafaxine

Answer 9

SNRIs
Major depression

Question 10

Drug class and indication

Duloxetine

Answer 10

SNRIs
Major depression
GAD
Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Question 11

Drug class and indication

Venlafaxine

Answer 11

SNRIs
Major depression
GAD
Panic disorder
Social phobia

GAD = Generalised anxiety disorder

Question 12

Drug interactions
SNRIs

Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors

Answer 12

Antihypertensives
* effects BP control
* Further decrease BP = hypotension

Serotonin toxicity
* Antidepressants
* Opioids
* MDMA, LSD

Anticoagulants
* increased risk of bleeding