Venlafaxine induced Delirium in a Withdrawal Syndrome

Abstract

Venlafaxine is a dual antidepressant very popular in the treatment of major depression and anxiety disorders. There are many side effects of venlafaxine data but very little about the effect of abrupt discontinuation of treatment. We present a case of 34 years male patient diagnosed Major Depression Disorder who developed delirium after abrupt stopping treatment with venlafaxine XR. The patient was treated with venlafaxine XR 150mg/day over 3 months for depressive symptoms that were added delusions of death and marked anxiety. 12 hours after abrupt discontinuation of venlafaxine XR he began to be agitated, disorientated, with visual hallucinations, tachycardia and sweating. After 72 hours of treatment the patient's condition has improved significantly with remission of symptoms of delirium. The venlafaxine withdrawal syndrome diagnosis was established after evaluation of all parameters, including brain CT and laboratory blood tests. Despite its therapeutic effects, venlafaxine should be prescribed with care when lower dose is needed or treatment has to be stopped due to any reasons in order to prevent withdrawal syndrome.