Mental Health Comparison
Escitalopram vs Effexor
Price comparison in Canada
Escitalopram starts at $10/mo, while Effexor starts at $12/mo in Canada. Escitalopram contains escitalopram (Cipralex, Lexapro), while Effexor contains venlafaxine XR. Last updated: 2026-02-26.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Escitalopram | Effexor | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $10–$22/mo | $12–$25/mo |
| Cheapest Pharmacy | Costco ($6.50/mo) | Costco ($8.00/mo) |
| Generic Name | escitalopram (Cipralex, Lexapro) | venlafaxine XR |
| Route | Oral tablet | Oral capsule |
| Category | Mental Health | Mental Health |
| ODB Coverage | General Benefit | General Benefit |
Pharmacy Price Breakdown
| Pharmacy | Escitalopram | Effexor |
|---|---|---|
| Costco | $6.50/mo | $8.00/mo |
| Walmart | $11.50/mo | $14.00/mo |
| Rexall | $14.00/mo | $17.00/mo |
| Shoppers Drug Mart | $16.00/mo | $19.50/mo |
Full Drug Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is cheaper, Escitalopram or Effexor?
- Escitalopram is generally cheaper, starting at $10.00/mo compared to $12.00/mo for Effexor. The lowest price is at Costco ($6.50/mo).
- What is the difference between Escitalopram and Effexor?
- Escitalopram (escitalopram (Cipralex, Lexapro)) and Effexor (venlafaxine XR) are different medications in the mental health category. Escitalopram is a oral tablet, while Effexor is a oral capsule.
- Is Escitalopram or Effexor covered by provincial drug plans?
- Escitalopram: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary. Effexor: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary.
Last updated: 2026-02-26