Bruxism possibly induced by venlafaxine

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Venlafaxine is a widely prescribed antidepressant for treating depression and anxiety.
• Bruxism, characterized by involuntary teeth grinding and clenching, can have various causes.
• The potential for drug-induced bruxism requires careful consideration in clinical practice.

Observation:

• A 62-year-old male patient initiated venlafaxine therapy for depression and anxiety.
• Within two weeks of commencing venlafaxine, the patient developed severe bruxism.
• The bruxism symptoms showed gradual improvement upon discontinuation of venlafaxine.

Findings:

• The patient's bruxism resolved completely within two months after stopping venlafaxine.
• This case suggests a potential causal relationship between venlafaxine and the onset of bruxism.
• Bruxism is identified as a possible adverse effect associated with venlafaxine treatment.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider venlafaxine as a potential cause of new-onset or worsening bruxism.
• Further research may be warranted to investigate the prevalence and mechanisms of venlafaxine-induced bruxism.
• This finding contributes to the understanding of the side effect profile of venlafaxine.