Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Basically, your body breaks down Effexor into Pristiq when you take it (chemically).

Pristiq was mostly produced because the drug company's patent on Effexor ran out, and there is generic available. So Effexor is much cheaper now.

I would check and see the cost of the two (with your insurance). If there is no price difference, get Pristiq. It is 'cleaner' because it eliminates a step in metabolizing Effexor, and there are reports of fewer side effects as you said.

The antidepressant effects of the two drugs should be the same though- same chemical.

I was on Effexor and then switched to Pristiq. I have been on many anti depressants and Effexor worked the best for me. The switch to Pristiq so far seems to be a good move.

Effexor made me manic...its how I found out I have bpd. good luck whatever you choose!

Effexor kindled my Depression and that is how I found out I had Bp. I went hyper-maniac...
So, just be cautious..

I'm on Effexor now and it has helped with my depression. I haven't had any side effects from it.

Good luck to you.

I'm currently taking Effexor with Wellbutrin and Lamictal and I was doing really well with that combination. I was on Effexor and Wellbutrin and then diagnosed with bpd so Lamictal was added though - I hate taking all 3. So it's worked well for me, but I hear it's hard to get off of sometimes.
I hope you find the right combo.