Venlafaxine and serious withdrawal symptoms: warning to drivers

MedGenMed. 2005 Jul 6;7(3):22.

Abstract

Venlafaxine is a widely used serotonin- and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor-type antidepressant that causes serious adverse effects in at least 5% of cases. Serious withdrawal symptoms may occur within hours of cessation or reduction of the usual dosage and may affect motor and coordination skills to such a degree that patients should be explicitly urged either to adhere to a strict medication routine or not to drive a car. Recent clinical evidence about withdrawal symptoms is presented that may indicate incidents in noradrenergic activity irrespective of dosage.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Automobile Driving*
  • Cyclohexanols / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / etiology*
  • Venlafaxine Hydrochloride

Substances

  • Cyclohexanols
  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Venlafaxine Hydrochloride