{"id":5564,"date":"2022-11-07T09:06:13","date_gmt":"2022-11-07T17:06:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=5564"},"modified":"2023-12-20T11:53:14","modified_gmt":"2023-12-20T19:53:14","slug":"zoloft-vs-effexor-xr","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/zoloft-vs-effexor-xr\/","title":{"rendered":"Zoloft vs. Effexor XR: What\u2019s the Difference and Which One Should I Take?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Though SSRIs are the first choice for treating depression symptoms, they aren\u2019t the only class of medications prescribed to treat depression. When researching treatment options, you\u2019ll likely come across other types of antidepressants, such as SNRIs, or selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While both these medication types are antidepressants, they work on different chemical messengers in the brain. As a result, SSRIs and SNRIs come with different side effects and affect patients differently. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this post, we will compare Zoloft, an SSRI, to Effexor XR, an SNRI, to illustrate the similarities and differences between the two. Developing your knowledge of depression medication will help you make the most educated and informed choice regarding your depression treatment with your healthcare provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you considering starting or changing an antidepressant to help you better manage symptoms of depression? Klarity is here to help. Our affordable, convenient, and fast telemedicine services have helped 30,000+ people connect with depression<\/a> specialists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discover what Klarity can do for you and schedule your appointment<\/a> today. Once you do, you\u2019ll be able to speak to a depression specialist in under 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Zoloft<\/th>Effexor XR<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td>Selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for sertraline<\/td>Brand name for venlafaxine (extended-release formula)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>\u2022 Clear, peppermint-flavored liquid suspension
\r\n\u2022 Color-coded tablets
\r\n<\/td>		\u2022 Extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Liquid suspension
\r\n\u2022 20 mg of sertraline per dose
\r\n
\r\nStandard tablet dosages:
\r\n\u2022 Green indicates 25 mg
\r\n\u2022 Blue indicates 50 mg
\r\n\u2022 Pinkish-red indicates 100 mg
\r\n<\/td>		Extended-release capsules:
\n\u2022 37.5mg
\n\u2022 75mg
\n\u2022 150 mg
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\r\n\u2022 Major depression
\r\n\u2022 Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
\r\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\r\n\u2022 Post-traumatic stress (PTS)
\r\n\u2022 Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
\r\n\u2022 Social anxiety disorder
\r\n
\r\nOff-label uses:
\r\n\u2022 Autism (mood stabilizing)
\r\n\u2022 Alcoholism
\r\n\u2022 Eating disorders
\r\n\u2022 Diabetic neuropathy
\r\n\u2022 Dementia
\r\n\u2022 Hot flashes
\r\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
\r\n\u2022 Fibromyalgia
\r\n\u2022 Migraines
\r\n\u2022 Personality disorders
\r\n\u2022 Tourette syndrome
\r\n\u2022 Premature ejaculation<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Major depressive disorder
\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\n\u2022 Social anxiety disorder
\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
\n\u2022 Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
\n\u2022 Diabetic neuropathy
\n\u2022 Hot flashes
\n\u2022 Migraine prevention
\n\u2022 Complex pain syndromes
\n\u2022 Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
\n\u2022 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
\n\u2022 Fibromyalgia
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (sertraline):
\r\n\u2022 $4 to $25 for 30 days\u2019 worth
\r\n
\r\nBrand-name:
\r\n\u2022 $215 to $315 for a 30-day supply
\r\n<\/td>		Generic form (venalfaxine):
\n\u2022 $13 to $48 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $580 to $640 for a 30-day supply
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Nausea or indigestion
\r\n\u2022 Diarrhea or loose stool
\r\n\u2022 Tremors or twitching
\r\n\u2022 Decreased appetite and weight loss
\r\n\u2022 Bruising and muscle aches
\r\n\u2022 Decreased libido\/trouble orgasming
\r\n\u2022 Excessive sweating
\r\n\u2022 Anxiety
\r\n
\r\nSerious side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Heart arrhythmia
\r\n\u2022 Bleeding and liver injury
\r\n\u2022 Confusion and seizures
\r\n\u2022 Suicidal thoughts
\r\n\u2022 Changes in behavior
\r\n\u2022 Serotonin syndrome
\r\n<\/td>		Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness
\n\u2022 Anxiety, nervousness, restlessness
\n\u2022 Sleep disturbances
\n\u2022 Strange dreams
\n\u2022 Changes in weight or appetite
\n\u2022 Dry mouth, increased yawning
\n\u2022 Increased sweating
\n\u2022 Sexual dysfunction
\n\u2022 Tremors
\n\u2022 Heart racing
\n\u2022 Blurred vision
\n\u2022 Nausea and vomiting
\n\u2022 Diarrhea or constipation
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Seizures
\n\u2022 Blurred vision\/seeing halos around lights
\n\u2022 Difficulty breathing\/chest tightness
\n\u2022 Abnormal bleeding
\n\u2022 Unnaturally stiff muscles
\n\u2022 Low blood sodium\u2014confusion, headaches and memory problems
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\r\n\u2022 Pregnancy or breastfeeding
\r\n\u2022 Liver problems
\r\n\u2022 Epilepsy and seizure disorders
\r\n\u2022 Glaucoma
\r\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder
\r\n\u2022 Thyroid disease
\r\n
\r\nDrug interactions:
\r\n\u2022 Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
\r\n\u2022 Blood thinners
\r\n\u2022 Antipsychotic and antiseizure medications
\r\n\u2022 Alcohol\u2014recreational and alcohol-based medications
\r\n<\/td>		Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Hypertension
\n\u2022 Interstitial lung disease
\n\u2022 Glaucoma
\n\u2022 Hyponatremia, or SIADH
\n\u2022 Seizure disorder
\n\u2022 Liver disease
\n\u2022 Kidney disease
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder
\n
\nAdverse drug interactions:
\n\u2022 MAOIs
\n\u2022 Blood thinners
\n\u2022 Other antidepressants
\n\u2022 Cimetidine
\n\u2022 Tramadol
\n\u2022 St. John\u2019s Wort
\n\u2022 Tryptophan
\n\u2022 Weight-loss medicine
\n\u2022 Mood disorder medication
\n\u2022 Migraine medication
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

Zoloft and Effexor XR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Zoloft and Effexor XR are both commonly prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder. Even though both medications are antidepressants and see widespread use, Zoloft and Effexor are different medication classes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both Zoloft and Effexor increase the brain\u2019s access to neurotransmitters, but the significant difference between the two antidepressants is which neurotransmitters are affected. Zoloft is an SSRI. It only affects serotonin levels in the brain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effexor, on the other hand, is an SNRI. It increases the availability of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This difference has notable implications for how each drug works in the body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Effexor XR?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Effexor (venlafaxine hydrochloride), an SNRI, is a class of antidepressants that increases the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain by blocking their reuptake in the synapses between neurons. Low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine are associated with an increase in various symptoms of anxiety and depression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

By making serotonin and norepinephrine more accessible in the brain, Effexor can treat the symptoms of depression and anxiety<\/a>. Effexor also has other on-label and off-label uses and comes in various forms and doses. Effexor XR is the extended-release form of the medication, meaning the drug stays in your system longer, so you don\u2019t have to take it as often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effexor Forms and Doses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Effexor is primarily administered orally via tablets or capsules and has extended-release (XR) options. The standard dose for an Effexor tablet is 150 mg once a day, but it is available in 25 mg, 37.5 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg doses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The standard dose for extended-release tablets and capsules is 75 mg, but 37.5 mg and 150 mg XR capsules and tablets are also available. This medication should be taken with water but doesn\u2019t need to be taken with food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions Effexor XR Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The FDA approves Effexor to treat the symptoms of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Healthcare providers also prescribe it as an off-label treatment for certain conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Anxiety Effexor Can Treat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Effexor is prescribed to help treat or reduce the following symptoms of anxiety:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Excessive anxiety, panic, or feelings of doom<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Irritability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Restlessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Muscle tension<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Difficulty concentrating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Sleep disturbances<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Symptoms of Depression Effexor Can Treat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Effexor is prescribed to treat or reduce the following symptoms of depression:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Depressed mood<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Crying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, hopelessness, and helplessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Trouble concentrating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Psychomotor agitation\u2014or having nervous energy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Psychomotor retardation\u2014or feeling trapped in slow motion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Changes in appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Off-Label Uses for Effexor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

      \u201cOff-label\u201d means that while the FDA has not conducted studies to approve using Effexor XR to treat these conditions, it has been shown to have positive effects. Healthcare providers may also prescribe Effexor to treat the following conditions \u201coff-label.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Fibromyalgia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Diabetic neuropathy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Hot flashes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Migraine prevention<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Complex pain syndromes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        Effexor XR Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Costs for all types of medication can vary based on insurance coverage and other factors, so prices are approximate. Generally, the price of 30 capsules of 150 mg generic Effexor, known as venlafaxine, often ranges between $13 and $45. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Effexor XR Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        SNRIs have potential side effects that potential users must be aware of before starting treatment. Most people do not experience severe side effects, and medical providers prescribe SNRIs because the benefits usually outweigh the potential risks. However, if you notice side effects that are ongoing or worsening, contact your medical provider<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Here are the most commonly reported side effects of Effexor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Hypertension<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Yawning<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Constipation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Abnormal sexual function<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Decreased libido<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Flatulence<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Loss of appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Insomnia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Effexor XR Warnings for Use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          Do not stop taking Effexor XR as prescribed without consulting your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve. If you decide Effexor isn\u2019t suitable for you, your medical provider will help you reduce your dose until you are no longer taking the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Stopping the medication suddenly or missing several doses can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          • Recurring symptoms of anxiety and depression<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Feeling dizzy <\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Irritability <\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Nightmares<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Paresthesias<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Headaches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

            In people with bipolar disorders, antidepressants may cause a person to switch from a depressive phase into a manic phase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Effexor may not be right for you if you have certain pre-existing conditions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            • Hypertension<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Interstitial lung disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Glaucoma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Hyponatremia, or SIADH<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Seizure disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Liver disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Kidney disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Bipolar disorder<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

              Medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain may lead to a rare but serious condition called serotonin syndrome. This condition usually occurs hours after starting a medication that elevates serotonin levels. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              • Agitation <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Trouble sleeping<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Confusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Rapid heart rate <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Dilated pupils<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Loss of muscle coordination <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • High blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Muscle rigidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Heavy sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Diarrhea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Shivering<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Goosebumps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                If you experience any of those side effects, including more severe ones like: high fever, tremors, seizures, irregular heartbeats, or unconsciousness, contact emergency medical services immediately and let your healthcare provider know. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Black Box Warning <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

                Effexor XR, like other antidepressants, comes with a black box warning. This means that for some patients, Effexor increased thoughts of self-harm and suicide. Though this risk is greater in children, it can also happen in adults. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                In the first few months of taking Effexor, monitor yourself for thoughts of self-harm and suicide and ask others to look out for unusual changes in your behavior, acting withdrawn, or increased depressive symptoms.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                If you have thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately. You can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24\/7.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Effexor XR Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                Effexor should not be taken within two weeks of taking MAOIs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Common MAOIs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                • Nardil (phenelzine)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Parnate (tranylcypromine)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Marplan (isocarboxazid)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Azilect (rasagiline)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Emsam (selegiline)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                  Other antidepressants, migraine medications, and certain pain medications can increase serotonin levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Effexor has been shown to increase the effects of blood thinners and other medications that increase the chance of bleeding:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \n
                  • Advil<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Motrin<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Coumadin<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Aspirin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                    Before prescribing Effexor XR, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, any medications you\u2019re currently taking, and other factors that may impact its usefulness in safely treating your depression or anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t

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