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:
Beneficial
Adverse
Check
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
Potential Negative Interaction
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
