Key takeaways
Amitriptyline (Elavil) and venlafaxine (Effexor) are both used to treat depression, but they belong to different classes of medications. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Venlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that also raises these chemicals. Amitriptyline is often used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention, whereas venlafaxine is also approved for anxiety, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Amitriptyline can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain, and it has many interactions with other medications. Venlafaxine, on the other hand, may cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly and can raise blood pressure, especially at higher doses. Venlafaxine is generally better tolerated and has fewer side effects if started at lower doses.
