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Comparing Cymbalta vs Effexor XR

Cymbalta

duloxetine

Effexor XR

venlafaxine

Cymbalta has antidepressant, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties; however, it has been associated with a discontinuation syndrome on withdrawal even when tapered. Prescribed for Chronic Pain,... more

Prescribed for Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Vulvodynia. Effexor XR may also be... more

Prescription only

Prescription only

Ratings & Reviews

Recent helpful reviews
6.6
1231 Reviews

For Depression I started Cymbalta over a month ago. I have been on at least six other Depression medications in the past. Before this medicine, my Depression was so bad I couldn't go to work without losing it. I was unemployed for two months to take time away to get help with Depression. I spent a week in the hospital because I was ready to kill myself and felt like I didn't have a purpose for being here. I learned a lot about myself in the hospital, it was one of the best things I could of done for myself. As of today I am a month free of Depression. Where before I couldn't go minutes without major Depression. I have energy and motivation again. I do have a decreased appetitie on this medication. I take it once in the morning and at night.

6
Hope and a purpose

For Depression I took Cymbalta for 1 year. It did help with my depression however, I became very lethargic and gained 25 lbs within 3 months. The weight gain scared me because I had never gained that much in such a short period of time. Also, I did have serious constipation with Cymbalta. If you can handle the wieght gain and constipation, I think Cymbalta is the medication to at least try, it does work-or it at least worked with my depression.

6
Anonymous
7.3
587 Reviews

For Depression I started taking effexol 4 years ago to take the edge off my anxiety because my job is stressful and I have to shoulder a lot of responsibility. I am on a daily 75mg dose. Overall, I have found it to be a great leveller, but the consequences of missing one dose is bad... missing 2 or 3 is pretty horrific, with head shocks, disorientation and feeling miserable. Really miserable. It's good medication, but do not forget it if you are travelling.

7
Paddy Irishman

For Depression I've been taking Effexor for about six months. within the first month I was up to 150mg. Since then I no longer have depression. I do have some moments of depression but not days/weeks. I do not have any panic attacks anymore! I'm not nearly as nervous as I was before Effexor. HOWEVER, my first week on Effexor was hell. I was extremely anxious, teeth chattering, night sweats, buzzing headache. and after months on Effexor if I miss one dose I get brain zaps. I'm also having vivid dreams. good dreams and bad ones. THIS MEDICINE TAKES TIME

7
blondielocks

View all 1231 reviews

View all 587 reviews

Drug Class

Side Effects

Common side effects include: asthenia, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, hypersomnia, insomnia, nausea, sedated state, headache, and xerostomia.

See the full Cymbalta side effects document.

Common side effects include: anorgasmia, asthenia, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, anorexia, decreased appetite, delayed ejaculation, diaphoresis, and xerostomia.

See the full Effexor XR side effects document.

Pricing and Coupons

* Prices are without insurance
Quantity 15 delayed release capsule
Dosage 60 mg
Per Unit* $7.35
Cost* $110.27
View all Cymbalta prices
View generic prices
Quantity 100 each
Dosage 75 mg
Per Unit* $14.78
Cost* $1,477.84
View all Effexor XR prices
View generic prices

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Generic Availability

Yes

Yes

Dosage Form(s) Available
  • Oral delayed release capsule
  • Oral capsule, extended release

Brand Names
Other duloxetine brands include: Irenka Other venlafaxine brands include: Effexor

Half Life

The half-life of a drug is the time taken for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce to half its original value.

17 hours

4 hours

CSA Schedule**

View glossary of terms.
N
Not a controlled drug

Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.
N
Not a controlled drug

Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.

Pregnancy Category
C
Category C Risk cannot be ruled out

See the full Pregnancy Warnings document.
C
Category C Risk cannot be ruled out

See the full Pregnancy Warnings document.

FDA Alerts

FDA Alerts (4)

FDA Alerts (8)

Drug Interactions

A total of 1118 drugs are known to interact with Cymbalta:

  • 230 major drug interactions (1739 brand and generic names)
  • 823 moderate drug interactions (4687 brand and generic names)
  • 65 minor drug interactions (417 brand and generic names)

A total of 1162 drugs are known to interact with Effexor XR:

  • 270 major drug interactions (1842 brand and generic names)
  • 883 moderate drug interactions (5007 brand and generic names)
  • 9 minor drug interactions (48 brand and generic names)

Alcohol/Food/Lifestyle Interactions
  • DULoxetine may cause liver damage, and taking it with alcohol may increase that risk. You should... more
  • Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of venlafaxine such as dizziness, drowsiness,... more

Disease Interactions

First Approval Date

N/A

October 20, 1997

WADA Class

View World Anti-Doping Agency classifications.

N/A

N/A

More Information

Consumer Resources

Professional Resources

Related Treatment Guide

** The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) schedule information displayed applies to substances regulated under federal law. There may be variations in CSA schedules between individual states.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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