Difference Between Effexor and Effexor xr

Effexor vs Effexor xr

Both effexor and effexor xr are anti depressant drugs of the selective serotonin noradrenalin reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI) category. Depression is considered to be a result of an unbalance of the serotonin levels and noradrenalin levels, where a decrease of these psychoactive chemicals results in a low mood, apathy and loss of enjoyment. Of the varied types of antidepressants that cause an increase in these psychoactive chemicals, effexor drug is very recent, and its other uses include bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social phobia, etc. Venalafaxine is the generic name of this drug, where as effexor is the brand name. Here, we will discuss the brands of Venalafaxine, effexor, and effexor xr.

Effexor

Effexor is a brand variant of Venalafaxine, taken especially for major depressive episodes, GAD, and bipolar disorder. Dose adjustment may be required in the case of kidney disease, liver disease, hypertension, glaucoma, etc. Also, care should be taken not to give those who are on mono amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). This drug is best avoided in teenagers as it is associated with suicide risk. To witness effects, it must be taken for at least 6 weeks, and a single course of medication need to be continued for at least two years. The adverse effects seen in these patients include drowsiness, lethargy, constipation, changes in appetite, dry mouth to seizure, cough chest tightness, agitation, hallucinations, etc.

Effexor XR

Effexor XR is also of Venalafaxine group catering to the same group of individuals, and same cautions in using in teenagers. This drug is only required to be taken once a day as it is an extended release medication. This drug also requires to be taken for about 6 weeks before the effects are seen, and need to be taken for at least two years continually. If discontinued the effects of the drugs vane, as well. The side effects include the mild effects like gastrointestinal disturbance to major effects like psychotic symptoms.

What is the difference between Effexor and Effexor XR?

In consideration of the two drugs, there are no major differences, as both drugs are venalafaxines. Both of them have the same chemical structure; both have adverse interactions with MAOIs, and both need to be avoided in teenagers. The effects of both these drugs are seen only after a period of 6 weeks and require continued medication for 2 years. The indications of the both drugs are the same as well, as well as the side effect profile of these drugs from minor to major side effects. The only major differences between the two is the frequency of dosing, which is due to the dependent on the nature of the slow release of the drug, Effexor XR. Thus, it is only required to dose that kind of a patient once a day, whereas a patient on effexor may require dosing, several times a day. Though the per tablet amount is the same in both the drugs, when it accumulates, the patient would have to pay more if he/ she were on effexor.

In summary, both these drugs are SNRIs, and both are venalafaxines, having equal pharmacodynamics, side effects, and pharmacokinetics except in the drug release from the tablets.

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