Effexor vs Cymbalta: side-by-side comparison
Effexor (Venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (Duloxetine) both belong to the Antidepressiva class. They share clinical context but use different active ingredients. The choice between them depends on mechanism nuances, side-effect profile and individual response.
| Property | Effexor | Cymbalta |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Venlafaxine | Duloxetine |
| Manufacturer | Wyeth/Pfizer | Eli Lilly |
| Class | Antidepressiva | Antidepressiva |
| Strengths | 37.5mg, 75mg, 150mg | 20mg, 30mg, 60mg |
| Forms | capsule | capsule |
What's the same
Effexor and Cymbalta both belong to the Antidepressiva class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Venlafaxine vs Duloxetine — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Venlafaxine vs Duloxetine), strengths (37.5mg, 75mg, 150mg vs 20mg, 30mg, 60mg), forms (capsule vs capsule), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
Effexor: Effexor hemmt die Wiederaufnahme von Serotonin und Noradrenalin an der Synapse. Cymbalta: Cymbalta hemmt die Wiederaufnahme von Serotonin und Noradrenalin an der Synapse.
When Effexor is preferred
Effexor XR ist zur Behandlung der Major Depression, der generalisierten Angststörung, der sozialen Phobie und der Panikstörung zugelassen.
When Cymbalta is preferred
Cymbalta ist zur Behandlung der Major Depression, der generalisierten Angststörung, diabetischer peripherer neuropathischer Schmerzen, Fibromyalgie und chronischer muskuloskelettaler Schmerzen zugelassen.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Is Effexor or Cymbalta better? ▾
There is no single answer. Effexor and Cymbalta both belong to the Antidepressiva class but differ in mechanism nuances, half-life and side-effect profile. Preference depends on the patient, the prescriber and prior response to other therapies.
Can I switch from Effexor to Cymbalta? ▾
Switching within the Antidepressiva class is done under supervision, typically using equivalent doses and a follow-up period to confirm response and tolerance. It is not a self-directed decision.
Do Effexor and Cymbalta have the same side effects? ▾
They share many of the Antidepressiva class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
More Effexor comparisons
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