Compare Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are both medications used to treat depression and anxiety, but they belong to different drug classes. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, while Effexor is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that raises both serotonin and norepinephrine activity. Lexapro is typically taken once daily and is available in both tablet and liquid forms, whereas Effexor comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms, with the extended-release version taken once daily. Effexor can treat a wider range of conditions, including social anxiety disorder and panic disorder, in addition to depression and generalized anxiety disorder. However, Effexor is more likely to cause severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly compared to Lexapro. Both medications can cause side effects like nausea and sleep issues, but Effexor may also raise blood pressure and has a higher risk of causing sweating and loss of appetite.
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Venlafaxine
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Venlafaxine
Summary of Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Summary for SSRIPrescription onlyEscitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.
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.
Indications of Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Indications for•Depression in people ages 12 years and older•Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and olderIndications for•Generalized anxiety disorder - extended-release capsules only•Social anxiety disorder - extended-release capsules and tablets only•Panic disorder - extended-release capsules onlyPros and Cons of Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Pros and Const for SSRIPros•First-choice medication for anxiety and depression•Only need to take it once a day•Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants•Can be taken with or without foodCons•Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits•Risk of certain sexual problems•Can raise your risk for bleeds•Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking itPros 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 stoppedCommon Side Effects of Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Common Side Effects for•Headache (24%)•Nausea (15-18%)•Ejaculation problems (9-14%)•Sleepiness (6-13%)•Trouble sleeping (9-12%)•Dry mouth (6-9%)•Diarrhea (8%)•Tiredness (5-8%)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%)Warnings of Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
Common Side Effects for•Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior•Serotonin syndrome•Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly•Risk of bleeding•Not for use alone in bipolar disorder•Glaucoma•Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)•Low blood sodium levels•Sexual problemsCommon 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 problemsPrices with our coupons for Lexapro vs. Effexor XR
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