Definition:
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are a type of antidepressant drug.
Normally, the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine are released by a nerve cell, then reabsorbed back in to the same cell. The re-absorption is called "reputake." SNRIs slow down reuptake, which makes the neurotransmitters available to your brain for a longer period of time.
Studies show some people with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome have low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, and SNRIs have been shown to help ease some symptoms of fibromyalgia and may be helpful for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Examples of SNRIs are:
- Cymbalta (duloxetine), FDA approved for fibromyalgia
- Savella (milnacipran), FDA approved for fibromyalgia
- Effexor (venlafaxine)
- Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
Also see: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor
