Venlafaxine is used to treat depression. It is also used to treat general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Venlafaxine belongs to a group of medicines known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Venlafaxine — better known by the brand name Effexor — is a medication used to treat depression. It belongs to a class of medications known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to improve mood and reduce anxiety. What Is Effexor? Venlafaxine (brand name Effexor) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) prescribed for depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions. Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that treats certain mental-health conditions. Common Effexor side effects include drowsiness, nausea, and constipation. They often resolve on their own over time. Other possible Effexor side effects include sweating, dry mouth, and anxiety. Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, and panic disorder. Includes Effexor XR side effects, interactions and indications. Venlafaxine (Effexor) is a potent SNRI for major depression, GAD, and panic disorder. Learn about its blood pressure effects, discontinuation syndrome, and global pricing. Venlafaxine is used in adults to treat major depressive disorder. Find patient medical information for Venlafaxine (Effexor) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Venlafaxine, sold under the brand name Effexor among others, is an antidepressant medication of the serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class. [5][9] It is used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. [9] Chronic venlafaxine treatment can facilitate the occurrence of hypertensive crises in normotensive patients. Mirtazapine should be considered the antidepressant of choice. Infants receive venlafaxine. Side effects in breastfed infants have rarely been reported.