SNRI
antidepressants were initially used for
depression. However, many of them are now approved for additional uses. Approved SNRI uses include the treatment of the following conditions:
Not all SNRIs are approved for all of the above uses.
(Click SNRI Uses for more information on these uses, along with possible off-label uses for SNRI antidepressants.)
SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) act on specific chemicals within the brain known as serotonin and norepinephrine.
Serotonin and norepinephrine are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin or norepinephrine. The serotonin or norepinephrine enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it.
When enough serotonin or norepinephrine reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin or norepinephrine that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
Normally, this process works without any problems. When the levels of serotonin or norepinephrine become unbalanced, however, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression. SNRIs help to block the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine so more remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the serotonin and norepinephrine a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
