Key takeaways
Buspirone (Buspar) and venlafaxine (Effexor) are both used to treat anxiety, but they belong to different medication classes and have distinct characteristics. Buspirone is an antianxiety medication that is typically taken twice daily and is not a controlled substance. It takes a few weeks to start working and is not used for quick relief of anxiety. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Venlafaxine, on the other hand, is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that treats depression, anxiety, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It can be taken once daily in its extended-release form and may take 1 to 2 weeks to start working, with full effects in 6 to 8 weeks. Venlafaxine can cause more severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly and may raise your blood pressure. Common side effects include nausea, tiredness, and dry mouth. Both medications can cause serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with other drugs that affect serotonin levels.
