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Celexa vs. Zoloft

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

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

Pros and Cons for Celexa

Pros

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

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

Price Card Drug Icon
Citalopram30 tablets / 20mg
$9.00$9.00
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Sertraline30 tablets / 50mg
$9.26$33.64
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