Venlafaxine

Drug Information

Venlafaxine is a drug used to treat depression. It is unrelated to other drugs used to treat depression.

Common brand names:

Effexor, Effexor XR

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

Types of interactions:BeneficialAdverseCheck

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

  • none

Reduce Side Effects

  • none

Support Medicine

  • none

Reduces Effectiveness

  • none

Potential Negative Interaction

  • There is one published report of a woman collapsing after taking venlafaxine in combination with the Chinese herbal remedy sour date nut (Ziziphus jujube), although she tolerated venlafaxine by itself without side effects. People taking venlafaxine should not take sour date nut.

  • 5-HTP

    Venlafaxine, a potent serotonin reuptake inhibitor, has been associated with several cases of serotonin syndrome. 5-HTP and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them with venlafaxine may increase venlafaxine-induced side effects. While no interactions with venlafaxine and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan have been reported, until more is known, people taking venlafaxine are cautioned to avoid 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.

    The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
  • L-Tryptophan

    Venlafaxine, a potent serotonin reuptake inhibitor, has been associated with several cases of serotonin syndrome. 5-HTP and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them with venlafaxine may increase venlafaxine-induced side effects. While no interactions with venlafaxine and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan have been reported, until more is known, people taking venlafaxine are cautioned to avoid 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.

    The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
  • St. John’s Wort

    Although there have been no interactions reported in the medical literature, it is best to avoid using venlafaxine with St. John’s wort unless you are under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

    The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Explanation Required

  • none

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.