What combination of medications includes Effexor?

Effexor, which is the brand name for venlafaxine, is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This medication works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Option B correctly identifies Effexor's classification, highlighting its role as an SNRI. This distinction is vital because it underscores how Effexor operates differently from selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other types of antidepressants.

By understanding that an SNRI combines effects on both serotonin and norepinephrine, you can appreciate why this medication might be used in cases where SSRIs alone are insufficient for managing a patient's symptoms. In clinical practice, knowing medication classes, particularly their mechanisms and potential combinations, assists in developing effective treatment strategies for various mental health conditions.