Venlafaxine, marketed as Effexor, and Duloxetine, marketed as Cymbalta are both serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They are both used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. However, they differ in a few ways. Duloxetine is approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in addition to depression and chronic pain. Venlafaxine is also approved for the treatment of social anxiety disorder.
Duloxetine has a higher risk of adverse effects than venlafaxine including nausea, dry mouth, constipation, somnolence, dizziness, and headache. Venlafaxine also has a lower rate of discontinuation symptoms than duloxetine. Some people may prefer taking duloxetine because it has a shorter half life which means it is eliminated from the body more quickly. However, others may prefer taking venlafaxine because it has fewer adverse effects. Both medications can be effective at treating the conditions for which they are prescribed. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if either medication would be appropriate for you.
What is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Cymbalta belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Cymbalta works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Cymbalta is available as a capsules, and the dosage depends on the condition being treated. Cymbalta should be taken with food, and the capsules should not be opened or broken. Cymbalta may cause side effects, and patients should talk to their doctor about any concerns. Cymbalta is a prescription medication, and it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions when taking Cymbalta.
What is Effexor?
Effexor is a prescription medication used to treat depression and anxiety. Effexor works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These are two neurotransmitters that are thought to play a role in mood regulation. Effexor is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which means that it helps to keep these neurotransmitters active in the brain.
Effexor is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, and insomnia. Effexor is available in both capsule and tablet form and is usually taken once or twice daily. Effexor should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or other antidepressants. If you are considering taking Effexor, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first to make sure it is the right medication for you.
Difference between Cymbalta and Effexor
Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are both selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSNRIs). Cymbalta is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and Effexor is also used to treat social anxiety disorder and panic disorder.
- Cymbalta and Effexor are both available as generic drugs. Cymbalta is available as an oral capsule, an oral delayed-release capsule, and an oral solution. Effexor is available as an extended-release oral capsule.
- Cymbalta and Effexor belong to different drug classes. Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and Effexor is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
- Cymbalta may be more likely than Effexor to cause certain side effects, such as feeling dizzy, tired, or sleepy. Cymbalta may also increase blood pressure. Both Cymbalta and Effexor are FDA-approved for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). However, Cymbalta is also FDA-approved for the treatment of GAD, OA, FM, MDD, & SAD whereas Effexor is only approved for MDD & SAD.
Therefore, if your healthcare provider prescribes Cymbalta for you, it may be because they believe that the drug’s benefits outweigh its risks for you specifically. Check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about why Cymbalta or Effexor has been prescribed for you. Your healthcare provider can provide more information about Cymbalta and Effexor.
Conclusion
The two medications, Cymbalta and Effexor, are both used to treat depression. However, they work in different ways and have different side effects. It is important for a patient to understand the difference between the two drugs before making a decision about which medication to take.
