Can you please compare/contrast effexor (venlafaxine) xr vs. wellbutrin xl?

Oranges and apples: Both antidepressants, Effexor (venlafaxine) and wellbutrin extended release are reliable and safe. But they have different mechanism of action. Different (and opposite) side effects, and adverse events. Indications are also different, and interactions. A more thorough comparison is not possible in 400 characters. Best wishes.

Very different meds: Effexor (venlafaxine) xr works on serotonin and ne reuptake; wellbutrin xl works on ne and dopamine. Both are long-acting, and both work for depression. Effexor (venlafaxine) can help anxiety + depression; wellbutrin does nothing for anxiety. With wellbutrin the main dangerous side effect can be seizures; with Effexor (venlafaxine) it's possible hypertension. Sexual side effects with effexor; not so with wellbutrin. This isn't all!