Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Trintellix (vortioxetine) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different drug classes. Trintellix is an atypical antidepressant, while Effexor is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Trintellix is only approved for treating depression, whereas Effexor is also approved for anxiety, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Trintellix is taken once a day and is not available as a generic, while Effexor comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms and is available as a lower-cost generic. Trintellix may cause less weight gain compared to other antidepressants, but Effexor is more likely to cause severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Both medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with other medications that affect serotonin levels.
Trintellix (vortioxetine)
Venlafaxine
Trintellix (vortioxetine)
Venlafaxine
Summary of Trintellix vs. Effexor XR
Summary for Atypical antidepressant
Prescription only
Trintellix (vortioxetine) belongs to a drug class known as atypical antidepressants. It's used to treat depression in adults. This medication is taken by mouth once a day. Some common side effects of Trintellix (vortioxetine) include nausea and diarrhea. It can also cause sexual problems, but not as much as some other antidepressants.
Summary for SNRI
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.