Difference Between Effexor and Effexor xr

Effexor is a brand-name medication used to treat major depressive disorder. The generic name of Effexor is venlafaxine. Effexor XR is the extended-release version of Effexor and can be taken once daily. Effexor can also treat anxiety and panic disorders.

1. Why was Effexor discontinued?
2. Is venlafaxine and Effexor the same thing?
3. Does Effexor give you energy?
4. Is there a better antidepressant than Effexor?
5. How long can I stay on Effexor?
6. Is Effexor safe for long term use?
7. Which is better Effexor or Wellbutrin?
8. Which is better Cymbalta or Effexor?
9. Does Effexor affect memory?
10. Should I take Effexor morning or night?
11. Is weight gain a side effect of Effexor?
12. Is Effexor XR a stimulant?

Why was Effexor discontinued?

Pfizer discontinued the original version of Effexor in part because it required two or three doses per day while the extended-release version allows for a single daily dose for most patients. Suggested dosages for venlafaxine are significantly higher compared to many SSRI antidepressants.

Is venlafaxine and Effexor the same thing?

Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that is generally prescribed in an extended-release form as Effexor XR. Effexor is in a class of antidepressants called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Does Effexor give you energy?

It may improve your mood and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may also decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. Venlafaxine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).

Is there a better antidepressant than Effexor?

9, 2002 -- A new antidepressant works faster with fewer side effects than a competitor, according to new research. The first head-to-head study of two antidepressants shows Lexapro is not only as effective as the popular antidepressant Effexor XR but appears to relieve symptoms faster with fewer side effects.

How long can I stay on Effexor?

How long will I take it for? Once you're feeling better it's likely that you will continue to take venlafaxine for several more months. Most doctors recommend that you take antidepressants for 6 months to 1 year after you no longer feel depressed. Stopping before that time can make depression come back.

Is Effexor safe for long term use?

To date, there are no known problems associated with long term use of venlafaxine. It is a safe and effective medication when used as directed.

Which is better Effexor or Wellbutrin?

Effexor and Wellbutrin are both effective drugs that treat depression. Effexor is better than Wellbutrin for treating anxiety disorders that are experienced alongside depression. However, compared to Wellbutrin, Effexor may cause more sexual side effects, such as abnormal ejaculation and impotence.

Which is better Cymbalta or Effexor?

However, when compared to placebo, Cymbalta and Effexor are both more effective for treating conditions like major depression. One study pooled several clinical trials and found that venlafaxine is a better short-term treatment option for major depression than duloxetine.

Does Effexor affect memory?

All drugs that depress signaling in the CNS can cause memory loss. Alternatives: Many patients with seizures do well on phenytoin (Dilantin), which has little if any impact on memory. Many patients with chronic nerve pain find that venlafaxine (Effexor) — which also spares memory — alleviates their pain.

Should I take Effexor morning or night?

Effexor XR (venlafaxine) comes as a tablet or extended-release capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken two or three times a day with food. The extended-release capsule is usually taken once daily in the morning or evening with food.

Is weight gain a side effect of Effexor?

While experts may not be certain about why antidepressants cause weight gain, they do know that switching drugs may make a difference. Some antidepressants may be less likely to affect weight. Effexor and Serzone generally do not cause weight gain, while Wellbutrin can cause weight loss.

Is Effexor XR a stimulant?

However, it does have several side effects that may make it seem like a stimulant to some people. For example, some people have insomnia (trouble sleeping), headache, increased blood pressure, and loss of appetite while taking Effexor XR.