Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Have Used Propranolol For Anxiety. Now Changed To Venlafaxine. Suggestion?
Question: For several years I have used propranolol (10-20 mg.) as needed for situations related to performance anxiety. Recently, after an injury and experiencing some panic while driving giving rise to more general anxiety, in addition to menopausal symptoms, my doctor has prescribed venlafaxine (37.5 mg.(1daily for 1st. week, 2 daily for next two weeks)). Is it same to use both of these drugs, i.e. continue to use the propranolol if needed on occasion?
Hi XXXX
Thanks for the query
It seems you have some vulnerability to develop anxiety (whether you talk of performance anxiety or generalized anxiety in your case from time to time ).
Aggravation of anxiety following such complications (e.g knee injury leading to immobility, affecting work etc in your case) is usual in our clinical practice
In such cases, Venlafaxine does help
I presume, after few weeks of regular venlafaxine intake, your doctor might taper and stop propranolol because there won't be any need for it.
It is quite safe to take venlafaxine and propranolol in combination or in occasional situations where you need.
Hope this clarify and helps. Wish you a fit physical and happy psychological life.
Will be pleased to assist you further.
Thanks for the query
It seems you have some vulnerability to develop anxiety (whether you talk of performance anxiety or generalized anxiety in your case from time to time ).
Aggravation of anxiety following such complications (e.g knee injury leading to immobility, affecting work etc in your case) is usual in our clinical practice
In such cases, Venlafaxine does help
I presume, after few weeks of regular venlafaxine intake, your doctor might taper and stop propranolol because there won't be any need for it.
It is quite safe to take venlafaxine and propranolol in combination or in occasional situations where you need.
Hope this clarify and helps. Wish you a fit physical and happy psychological life.
Will be pleased to assist you further.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Thank-you for the information. I've read lots about side effects of venlafaxine and I'm a bit reluctant to take it. Should I expect an increase in anxiety at first? I also wonder how long before I can expect to feel some positive relief after beginning dosage. Thanks so much for your assistance.
Yes, you are right that initially it increase anxiety, for 4 days to a couple of weeks or with each hike of the dose.
The usual response is expected in 2-6 weeks of starting the dose.
I would suggest, keep patience, tolerate a bit of anxiety in the beginning. This in long run will make you feel much better, will increase your work performance and quality of life etc.
Thank you for starting and continuing venlafaxine. Please do not discontinue without discussing with your doctor.
Wish you a happy life
The usual response is expected in 2-6 weeks of starting the dose.
I would suggest, keep patience, tolerate a bit of anxiety in the beginning. This in long run will make you feel much better, will increase your work performance and quality of life etc.
Thank you for starting and continuing venlafaxine. Please do not discontinue without discussing with your doctor.
Wish you a happy life
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Mohammed Kappan
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
