Venlafaxine in the treatment of anxiety disorders

Venlafaxine extended-release (Effexor®XR, Wyeth-Ayerst Co.) is a novel, dual acting serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant, which inhibits the synaptic reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of venlafaxine in the treatment of anxiety disorders including social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder and obsessive–compulsive disorder. Generally well-tolerated with side effects that usually abate with continued treatment, venlafaxine is an important alternative to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for patients with anxiety disorders.