Venlafaxine for the Prevention of Depression in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

This is an double-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial to determine if Venlafaxine can prevent development of depression in patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer.

Inclusion Criteria:Provision of signed and dated informed consent formStated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the studyMale or female, aged 18 years or olderAbility to speak and understand EnglishHave a recently diagnosed cutaneous or mucosal malignancyScheduled to undergo treatment for their malignancy (surgical or nonsurgical) with curative intentAbility to take medication orally (by mouth or via parenteral route)Willing to adhere to the study drug's dosing protocolExclusion Criteria:Age less than 18 yearsInability to speak or understand EnglishPrimary malignancy of thyroid or parathyroid originCurrently meet diagnostic criteria for psychosis, schizophrenia, or moderate/severe major depressive disorder (MDD)Currently receiving medication as treatment for depression or anxietyKnown allergic reaction to components of study drugHave uncontrolled pain or chronic pain disorderTreatment with another investigational drug or other intervention within 30 daysFemales of child-bearing age who are pregnant or nursing