Compare Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Venlafaxine (Effexor) and pregabalin (Lyrica) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Venlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat depression, anxiety, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Pregabalin, on the other hand, is an anticonvulsant used to treat nerve pain from diabetes, shingles, spinal cord injury, fibromyalgia, and partial-onset seizures. It is thought to lower certain chemicals in the brain to relieve pain and prevent seizures. Venlafaxine is available as a lower-cost generic, while pregabalin is also available in a generic form. Venlafaxine can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, while pregabalin can lead to dizziness, drowsiness, and weight gain. Additionally, pregabalin is a Schedule V controlled substance due to its potential for addiction and dependence, whereas venlafaxine is not a controlled medication.
- VenlafaxinePregabalin (Lyrica)
- VenlafaxinePregabalin (Lyrica)
Summary of Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Summary for SNRIPrescription onlyVenlafaxine is an antidepressant used to treat mental health conditions like depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It comes in two forms: extended-release, which is taken once a day, and immediate-release, which is taken in split doses throughout the day. This medication can interact with many things, including other medications and alcohol. Possible side effects can include nausea, weight changes, and sexual problems. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly.
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyPregabalin (Lyrica) treats pain caused by nerve damage and fibromyalgia in adults. It can be used with other medications to prevent seizures for both adults and children. Pregabalin (Lyrica) is taken by mouth, typically 2 or 3 times a day. It's available as a capsule and oral solution. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include dizziness and drowsiness.
Indications of Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Indications for•Generalized anxiety disorder - extended-release capsules only•Social anxiety disorder - extended-release capsules and tablets only•Panic disorder - extended-release capsules onlyIndications for•Nerve pain from diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy), shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), or spinal cord injury•FibromyalgiaPros and Cons of Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Pros and Const for SNRIPros•Can treat multiple mental health conditions•Affects two chemicals in the brain that impact your mood•Lower risk of weight gain compared to other antidepressants•Comes in both immediate-release and extended-release versionsCons•Might raise your blood pressure, especially at higher doses•Interacts with many medications•Can take up to 4 to 8 weeks before you feel the full effect•High risk of causing withdrawal symptoms if suddenly stoppedPros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•Works well to relieve nerve pain caused by diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries•Available in a capsule and oral solution•Used in combination with other anti-seizure drugs to treat partial-onset seizures•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•Can cause dizziness and drowsiness•Must avoid drinking alcohol•Not recommended for breastfeeding females•Can cause weight gainCommon Side Effects of Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Common Side Effects forExtended-release:
•Nausea (29-31%)•Trouble sleeping (17-23%)•Dizziness (16-20%)•Loss of appetite (10-20%)•Drowsiness (15-17%)•Dry mouth (12-17%)•Abnormal ejaculation (10-16%)•Sweating (11-14%)•Weakness (8-13%)Immediate-release:
•Nausea (37%)•Headache (25%)•Drowsiness (23%)•Dry mouth (22%)•Dizziness (19%)•Trouble sleeping (18%)•Constipation (15%)•Nervousness (13%)•Weakness (12%)•Sweating (12%)•Abnormal ejaculation (12%)•Loss of appetite (11%)Common Side Effects for•Dizziness (8-29%)•Drowsiness (4-16%)•Swelling of hands, feet, arms, or legs (4-12%)•Dry mouth (2-7%)•Weight gain (4-6%)Warnings of Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
Common Side Effects for•Suicidal thoughts and behavior•Serotonin syndrome•High blood pressure•Higher bleeding risk•Mania•Glaucoma•Withdrawal•Seizures•Low sodium levels•Lung problems and pneumonia•Sexual problemsCommon Side Effects for•Allergic reactions and severe swelling•Suicidal thoughts and behavior•Difficulty driving and concentrating•Breathing problems•Swelling in the limbs and weight gain•Withdrawal symptoms and risk of seizures•Possible risk of bleeds (from low platelet levels)•Possible risk of muscle breakdownPrices with our coupons for Effexor XR vs. Lyrica
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