Venlafaxine is the first mixed serotonin and noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitor. It should offer the benefits of tricyclic antidepressants with fewer drawbacks.

It has side effects similar to those of SSRIs. The most common side effects are:

• Constipation
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Slight increase in cholesterol

Other more serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reaction, fast heart rate, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, blurred vision, insomnia, increased blood pressure, and seizures.

Venlafaxine should not be taken if the patient has had an allergic reaction to this medication in the past or are currently taking an MAOI.

Warning, however, that Venlafaxine can give serious abstinence symptoms for several months when you quit using it.