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Paxil vs. Effexor XR

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Paroxetine (Paxil) and venlafaxine (Effexor) are both medications used to treat depression and anxiety, but they belong to different classes. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), while Venlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This means Paroxetine mainly increases serotonin levels in the brain, whereas Venlafaxine increases both serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Paroxetine is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, and it can also treat conditions like OCD, PTSD, and PMDD. Venlafaxine, on the other hand, is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms but is not used for OCD or PTSD. Paroxetine is more likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects, while Venlafaxine is more likely to cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Both medications can cause nausea and sleepiness, and they carry a risk of serotonin syndrome and suicidal thoughts, especially in younger people.

Paroxetine

(Paxil)

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Venlafaxine

 

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Summary for Paxil

Prescription only

Paroxetine (also known by it's brand name Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), used for different types of anxiety problems and depression. It's available as a brand name and generic version, and it comes as an immediate-release tablet, an oral suspension, and an extended-release tablet. Possible side effects include nausea, sexual side effects, and weight gain. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms (e.g., headache, trouble sleeping, anxiety) if you suddenly stop taking it.

Indications for Paxil

Pros and Cons for Paxil

Pros

  • Only needs to be taken once daily
  • Available as a tablet and oral liquid
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Can be used for many different mental health conditions
  • Can be helpful for people who have both anxiety and depression

Cons

Common Side Effects for Paxil

  • Abnormal ejaculation (up to 28%)
  • Nausea (up to 25%)
  • Weakness (up to 22%)
  • Sleepiness or trouble sleeping (up to 24%)
  • Dry mouth (up to 18%)
  • Constipation (up to 16%)
  • Sweating (up to 14%)
  • Dizziness (up to 14%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 12%)
  • Low libido (up to 12%)
  • Shakiness (up to 11%)

Warnings for Paxil

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Risk of harm to unborn babies
  • Sexual problems
  • Withdrawal
  • Risk of bleeding
  • Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
  • Glaucoma
  • Low blood sodium levels
  • Seizures
  • Risk of abnormal heart rhythm from interactions

Summary for Effexor XR

Prescription only

Venlafaxine 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 for Effexor XR

Pros and Cons for Effexor XR

Pros

  • 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 versions

Cons

  • 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 stopped

Common Side Effects for Effexor XR

Extended-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 for Effexor XR

  • Suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • High blood pressure
  • Higher bleeding risk
  • Mania
  • Glaucoma
  • Withdrawal
  • Seizures
  • Low sodium levels
  • Lung problems and pneumonia
  • Sexual problems

Prices with our coupons for Paxil vs. Effexor XR

Price Card Drug Icon
Paroxetine90 tablets / 20mg
$10.00$10.00
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Price Card Drug Icon
Venlafaxine90 tablets / 75mg
$21.35$165.17
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