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Venlafaxine hypertension and withdrawal — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsVenlafaxine hypertension and withdrawalGPhC CRA

A 38-year-old woman taking venlafaxine modified-release 225mg daily asks to stop because of sweating and raised BP. Her clinic BP is 158/96mmHg, pulse 104/min and she has missed two doses this week with dizziness and electric-shock sensations. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: AArrange BP review and supervised venlafaxine taper

Venlafaxine can increase blood pressure and can cause discontinuation symptoms if doses are missed or stopped abruptly. The patient needs prescriber review of cardiovascular effects and a supervised plan if dose reduction or switching is needed. St John's wort and immediate MAOI switching would introduce serious interaction risks.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training/registration-assessment