Can patients with somatization disorder take venlafaxine?
Nov 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Venlafaxine hydrochloride, as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, improves mood and anxiety symptoms by modulating neurotransmitter levels, and has a certain alleviating effect on physical discomfort caused by somatoform disorders. If a patient presents with depressed mood, anxiety accompanied by recurrent somatic symptoms, and meets the clinical indications for medication after evaluation, the physician may consider it as one of the treatment options.
Anshufaxin, also known as Toluide Venlafaxine Hydrochloride, is commonly prescribed under medical supervision for patients with somatoform disorders. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
As a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, venlafaxine hydrochloride helps regulate neurotransmitter levels to improve mood and anxiety symptoms, thereby providing some relief from physical discomfort caused by somatoform disorders. If a patient experiences low mood, anxiety, and recurrent somatic symptoms that meet the clinical criteria for medication use, doctors may consider this drug as part of the treatment plan.
The drug is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment, narrow-angle glaucoma, epilepsy, or hypersensitivity to its components. Additionally, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals under 18 years of age should use it only after careful assessment of risks versus benefits. During treatment, vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate should be monitored regularly, and abrupt discontinuation should be avoided to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Dosage adjustments must strictly follow medical instructions; patients should not alter the dose or discontinue the medication on their own. If adverse reactions such as dizziness or nausea occur, or if symptoms fail to improve, the patient should immediately contact their doctor for evaluation and possible adjustment of the treatment plan.
