What class of medication does Velafaxine (Effexor) belong to?

Velafaxine, known by the brand name Effexor, is classified as a Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). This class of medication is primarily used in the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. SNRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. This dual mechanism can enhance mood and alleviate anxiety more effectively than medications that target only one neurotransmitter.

Understanding why Velafaxine is specifically an SNRI involves recognizing its pharmacological action. Unlike Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), which only affect serotonin levels, or Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) that have broader and potentially more problematic effects on neurotransmitter systems, SNRIs like Velafaxine provide a targeted approach that can often lead to improved therapeutic outcomes in patients.

This category of medication is valued for its efficacy in treating not just depression but also conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, as well as providing some benefits in treating chronic pain. Knowing Vel