Which class of antidepressants includes medications like Effexor and Cymbalta?

Effexor (venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) belong to the class of medications known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs. This class of antidepressants works by inhibiting the reuptake of two neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine, which helps to elevate mood and improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

SNRIs are particularly effective for a variety of mood disorders and chronic pain conditions, as they not only increase serotonin levels but also exacerbate the availability of norepinephrine, making them versatile in treating both mental health and physical health issues. Their dual action generally sets them apart from other antidepressant classes that primarily focus on serotonin alone.

This mechanism also differentiates SNRIs from tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), which also affect norepinephrine but have a different action profile and side effect profile. Similarly, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) focus solely on enhancing serotonin levels, while monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine.

Therefore, the classification of Effexor and Cymbalta as SNRIs is