Effexor XR Alternatives

There are a number of alternatives to Effexor XR for the treatment of depression. A few of these alternatives include therapy, other depression medications (such as tricyclic antidepressants or trazodone), and alternative (natural) therapies. Some examples of natural Effexor XR alternatives that some people may consider include valerian, acupuncture, and St. John's wort.
 

Effexor XR Alternatives: An Overview

 Effexor XR® (venlafaxine XR) is a prescription medicine used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders. The medicine is part of a group of antidepressant drugs called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
 
Most people tolerate Effexor well and find that it is effective at treating their symptoms. However, as with all medicines, it is possible that side effects will occur during treatment with Effexor XR or that the medicine may not adequately control a person's symptoms. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to Effexor XR for depression treatment, including:
 
  • Therapy
  • Other depression medications (also known as antidepressants)
  • Electroconvulsive therapy
  • Alternative (natural) therapies.
     
(This article describes alternatives to Effexor XR for the treatment of depression. For information on Effexor XR alternatives for other medical conditions, go to:
 

 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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