|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

Difference Between Effexor & Cymbalta

Effexor or venlafaxine hydrochloride and Cymbalta or duloxetine hydrochloride are two prescription medications. Despite the fact that both are used to treat symptoms of depression and generalized anxiety disorder, there are many differences between Effexor and Cymbalta.

  1. Uses

    • In addition to anxiety disorders and depression, doctors sometimes prescribe Effexor to treat panic disorders while Cymbalta is sometimes given to control pain caused by diabetic neuropathy or fibromyalgia, reports the Mayo Clinic.

    Appearance

    • Effexor comes in tablets that are peach in color and have the number that corresponds to the dosage of the tablet and a "W" on one side of the pill. Cymbalta is a capsule that is either all green, white and blue or green and blue depending on the dosage.

    Dosage

    • Effexor is available in 25mg, 37.5mg, 50mg, 75mg and 100mg strengths, while Cymbalta comes only in 20 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg strengths.

    Pediatric Use

    • While both Effexor and Cymbalta pose a risk for suicidal thoughts and self-harmful behaviors when prescribed for children, FDA clinical studies republished on rxlist.com have also shown that Effexor also slows a child's rate of growth.

    Restrictions

    • Effexor may not be safe for people with high cholesterol levels or hyperthyroidism, warns the Mayo Clinic. Cymbalta does not pose a risk to these types of patients.

Depression - Related Articles