Key takeaways
Sertraline (Zoloft) and venlafaxine (Effexor) are both medications that treat mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. It's typically taken once a day and comes as a tablet, capsule, and oral liquid. , Venlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that raises both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. It comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms, and is taken between one and three times a day depending on which form you're prescribed. Both medications can take several weeks to start working, and neither medication should be stopped suddenly. Both medications can cause nausea, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping. Sexual side effects are also possible. Venlafaxine seems to be less likely to cause weight gain than sertraline. But it carries a higher risk than sertraline for increased blood pressure.
