Pristiq and Effexor are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that are used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). They are both effective in treating MDD, but they have different side effect profiles. Pristiq is generally better tolerated than Effexor, and it is less likely to cause sexual side effects. However, Pristiq is also more expensive than Effexor.
If your patients are considering taking an SSRI for MDD, it is important to talk to them about about the risks and benefits of both Pristiq and Effexor.
Here is a more detailed presentation of the information:
Pristiq
- Generic name: Desvenlafaxine
- Class: SSRI
- Dosage: 50-400 mg/day
- Side effects: Headache, nausea, dizziness, sexual dysfunction
- Cost: $100-200 per month
Effexor
- Generic name: Venlafaxine
- Class: SSRI
- Dosage: 37.5-375 mg/day
- Side effects: Headache, nausea, dizziness, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, upset stomach, increased sweating, anxiety, agitation, tremors, high blood pressure, seizures
- Cost: $50-100 per month