SNRI is better than SSRI?

Hi,

Is SNRI really better than SSRI?

What I want to say is if I'm taking a SNRI, and it's not working well, so changing to a SSRI is a bad idea?

Thanks

SNRI's are not exactly "better". SNRIs (Venlafaxine in particular) blocks the re-uptake of serotonin more than norepinephrine. SSRIs have no action on norepinephrine. If the SSRI you are taking now (Venlafaxine) has a stronger effect on blocking the re-uptake of serotonin. You could try another SNRI that blocks more norepinephrine than serotonin such as duloxetine. If this doesn't work, you could always try a TCA. TCAs affect norepinephrine and serotonin but have more side effects, because they are sloppy.

I think it really depends on the person. Another option would be to add Wellbutrin to the SNRI, which is what my p-doc did for me recently (I'm on Cymbalta). She said Abilify would have been another option to add. That way, you wouldn't have to deal with tapering down on the SNRI, too.

No, an SNRI isn't necessarily better just because it affects two neurotransmitters instead of one, if that's what you mean.