Effexor vs Cymbalta: side-by-side comparison
Effexor (Venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (Duloxetine) both belong to the Antidépresseurs 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 | Antidépresseurs | Antidépresseurs |
| Strengths | 37.5mg, 75mg, 150mg | 20mg, 30mg, 60mg |
| Forms | capsule | capsule |
What's the same
Effexor and Cymbalta both belong to the Antidépresseurs 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 inhibe la recapture synaptique de la sérotonine et de la noradrénaline. Cymbalta: Cymbalta inhibe la recapture synaptique de la sérotonine et de la noradrénaline.
When Effexor is preferred
Effexor LP est autorisé dans la dépression caractérisée, le trouble anxieux généralisé, l'anxiété sociale et le trouble panique.
When Cymbalta is preferred
Cymbalta est autorisé dans la dépression caractérisée, le trouble anxieux généralisé, les douleurs neuropathiques périphériques diabétiques, la fibromyalgie et les douleurs musculosquelettiques chroniques.
Questions fréquentes
Is Effexor or Cymbalta better? ▾
There is no single answer. Effexor and Cymbalta both belong to the Antidépresseurs 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 Antidépresseurs 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 Antidépresseurs class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
More Effexor comparisons
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