A case of unexpected ecchymosis associated with a high dose of venlafaxine
Özet
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
(SSRIs) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are antidepressants
that are widely used for many psychiatric
conditions, including generalized anxiety
disorder, depression, panic disorder, and
obsessive compulsive disorders.1–3 Venlafaxine
is an SNRI with a dual mechanism of action
on both serotonin (5-HT) and (at higher doses)
norepinephrine (NE) pumps.4,5 Furthermore, it
acts as a dual 5-HT and NE reuptake inhibitor,
especially at doses of 225 mg/d or more.6 The
adverse effects of venlafaxine at 75 mg/d are
similar to an SSRI (ie, vomiting, weight gain nausea, sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances,
and sexual dysfunction). However, at higher
doses, its effects are similar to those of an
NE uptake inhibitor (ie, dry mouth, tachycardia, and hypertension).4,7
