SNRIs (Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)

Introduction

• SNRIs: Class of antidepressant drugs
• Treat: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain
• Mnemonic: "Sunrise" for SNRIs

Mechanism

• Increase serotonin (happiness neurotransmitter)
  • Symbolized by happy-faced takeout bag
• Increase norepinephrine (similar to north on a compass)
• Block reuptake into cells

Common Drugs

• Duloxetine
  • Mnemonic: Sunrise duel scene in western movie
• Venlafaxine
  • Mnemonic: Vanilla ice cream

Uses

• Depression
  • Symbolized by a girl crying over a movie scene
• Anxiety
  • Symbolized by a boy anxious to kiss the girl
• Chronic pain
  • Symbolized by cowboy in pain from being shot
  • Treats: Nerve pain (e.g., from diabetes), fibromyalgia, chronic back pain

Side Effects

• Serotonin Syndrome (too much serotonin)
  • Symptoms: Tachycardia, sweating, hypertension, rigid muscles, hyperactive reflexes, diarrhea, headache
  • Advisable to avoid other serotonin-increasing substances:
    • Saint John's Wort
      • Mnemonic: Saints warthog
    • MAOIs
      • Mnemonic: Maui plane tickets
• Sexual Dysfunction
  • Mnemonic: Girl blocking kiss
  • Symptoms: Low libido, difficulty achieving orgasm

Review

• SNRIs: Increase serotonin and norepinephrine
• Treat: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain
• Risk: Serotonin syndrome (avoid Saint John's Wort, MAOIs)
• Possible sexual dysfunction

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