Celexa vs. Zoloft for Depression: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Citalopram

(Celexa)

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Sertraline

(Zoloft)

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Summary for Celexa

Prescription only

Citalopram (Celexa) is a first-choice medication for treating depression in adults. This antidepressant belongs to the drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram (Celexa) is typically taken by mouth once daily. It typically takes a few weeks or longer of consistent treatment to notice an improvement to your mood. Common side effects include nausea and dry mouth. There's a low risk for weight gain, but suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms (e.g., upset stomach, trouble sleeping, anxiety).

Indications for Celexa

Depression

Pros and Cons for Celexa

Pros

A first-choice option for treating depression
One of the safest antidepressants for older adults
Available as a tablet, capsule, and a mint-flavored liquid
Taken by mouth once daily

Cons

Can take a couple months before you feel the full effects of this medication
Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels or heart rhythm
Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
Not FDA-approved for children

Common Side Effects for Celexa

Nausea (21%)
Dry mouth (20%)
Sleepiness (18%)
Trouble sleeping (15%)
Sweating (11%)
Tremor (8%)
Diarrhea (8%)
Ejaculation problems (6%)

Warnings for Celexa

Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
Serotonin syndrome
Withdrawal
Higher risk of bleeding
Not for use in bipolar disorder by itself
Glaucoma
Low sodium levels

Summary for Zoloft

Prescription only

Sertraline (Zoloft) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's used to treat different mental health conditions, including depression and certain types of anxiety disorder, such as panic disorder. It's typically taken by mouth once per day. This medication is available as both a tablet and liquid. Common side effects of sertraline (Zoloft) include nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth. It's best to avoid alcohol while taking sertraline (Zoloft) because this combination can worsen side effects of sertraline (Zoloft).

Indications for Zoloft

Pros and Cons for Zoloft

Pros

Taken by mouth once daily
A possible option during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Fewer interactions compared to other SSRIs
Less likely to cause weight gain compared to paroxetine (Paxil)
Available as a generic

Cons

Can take up to 2 months before you feel the full benefits
More likely to cause diarrhea compared to other SSRIs
Might make it more difficult for you to fall asleep
Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
The liquid form contains alcohol

Common Side Effects for Zoloft

Nausea (26%)
Diarrhea (20%)
Difficulty sleeping (20%)
Dry mouth (14%)
Sleepiness (12%)

Warnings for Zoloft

Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
Serotonin syndrome
Risk of bleeding
Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
Glaucoma
Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
Low blood sodium levels

Prices with our coupons for Celexa vs. Zoloft

Citalopram90 tablets / 20mg

$16.11$82.54

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Sertraline90 tablets / 100mg

$17.35$91.60

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Celexa vs. Zoloft

Citalopram

Sertraline

Summary for Celexa

Indications for Celexa

Pros and Cons for Celexa

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Celexa

Warnings for Celexa

Summary for Zoloft

Indications for Zoloft

Pros and Cons for Zoloft

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Zoloft

Warnings for Zoloft

Prices with our coupons for Celexa vs. Zoloft

Compare other Depression drugs

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Citalopram

Sertraline

Summary for Celexa

Indications for Celexa

Pros and Cons for Celexa

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Celexa

Warnings for Celexa

Summary for Zoloft

Indications for Zoloft

Pros and Cons for Zoloft

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Zoloft

Warnings for Zoloft