Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Drug Comparison

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are two prescription medications that treat mood disorders. They are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase the serotonin levels in the brain. While these two medications are similar, some differences are important to note.

This article will cover how Zoloft and Lexapro work and their side effects. It will also discuss conditions that these medications treat.

Zoloft

Zoloft is used to treat several mental health conditions. It is in the SSRI class and blocks serotonin reuptake, causing an accumulation of serotonin in the brain.

Serotonin regulates mood, personality, and wakefulness in the central nervous system (CNS), made up of the brain and spinal cord. By blocking its reuptake and allowing for more serotonin in the brain, Zoloft can benefit certain conditions like depression.

Conditions

Zoloft is approved to treat multiple conditions, including:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic disorder (PD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Dosage

Zoloft commonly causes insomnia, so it is typically recommended to take it in the morning. Drowsiness occurs less commonly.

For major depressive disorder, the dose starts at 50 milligrams (mg) and can be increased to 200 mg. Other conditions start at 25 mg or 50 mg and can be as high as 200 mg.

The dosage for Zoloft varies from person to person. The dose is based on several factors, including the condition being treated, symptoms, and other medical conditions the person may have. Follow the prescribing provider's instructions on the dosage and refer to the medication label as well.

Lexapro

Lexapro is a prescription medication that is used to treat anxiety and depression. It is an SSRI and increases serotonin levels in the brain. The conditions, dosage, and effectiveness are discussed below.

Conditions

Lexapro is indicated to treat the following conditions:

• MDD in adults and adolescents
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults

Dosage

Lexapro is typically taken once per day in the morning or evening.

The dosage ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg. The dose will vary from person to person based on their diagnosis and the healthcare provider's recommendations. Follow the instructions given by the healthcare provider.

Effectiveness

A 2017 study found that after 24 weeks on Lexapro, there was an improvement in participants' depression, anxiety, and quality of life.

Lexapro is effective in treating depression in both adolescents and adults.

Do Lexapro and Zoloft Work the Same?

Lexapro and Zoloft work in very similar ways. They are both in the SSRI class of drugs and increase serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger carrying signals between brain nerve cells (neurons). SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft block the serotonin from reabsorbing, allowing more serotonin to be available in the brain.

Side Effects

Since Lexapro and Zoloft are both SSRIs, they have similar side effects. Gastrointestinal (GI, involving the stomach and intestines) side effects are the most common. Below is a list of the common side effects:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Sexual changes (ejaculation failure, decreased libido)
• Tremor

It's important to talk to a healthcare provider when side effects occur. They may change the medication and its dose or suggest ways to improve the side effects.

Drug Interactions and Warnings

SSRIs like Zoloft and Lexapro may decrease the body's ability to form clots and increase bleeding risk.

People need to be aware of this, especially if they are also on anticoagulants or blood thinners that increase bleeding risk, like Jantoven (warfarin), or aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

People on Zoloft and Lexapro should not stop the medication abruptly. People on these medications need to be gradually weaned off. Stopping abruptly can lead to side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Sweating
• Dysphoric mood
• Irritability

Some medications—when taken with Zoloft or Lexapro—can increase the risk of certain conditions. Always have a current list of medications available so a healthcare provider can cross-reference when starting something new.

These medications also have a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults.

How Does Lexapro Differ from Zoloft?

Two major differences between Lexapro and Zoloft are their uses for anxiety and the ages they're approved for.

In addition to treating anxiety and depression, only Zoloft is also approved to treat:

• OCD
• PD
• PTSD
• PMDD

Another key difference is that Zoloft is not approved to treat depression in adolescents, and Lexapro is approved to treat depression in people ages 12 years old and older. Zoloft is approved to treat OCD in children 6 years and older.

Talking to Your Healthcare Provider

Lexapro and Zoloft are two medications that are effective at treating certain mental health conditions. However, medication is not the only method for treating mental health conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to manage symptoms.

Summary

Zoloft and Lexapro are prescription medications from the class of SSRIs. These medications are approved to treat several mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.

As with most medications, people must be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting a new medication to ensure it is safe for your situation.