Compare Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Summary of Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Summary for SSRIPrescription onlyEscitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.
Summary for SSRIPrescription onlyFluoxetine (Prozac) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's used to treat several mental health conditions, including depression and panic disorder. The immediate-release pill and liquid are taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. The delayed-release capsule is taken weekly, but it's approved only for depression. Some common side effects of fluoxetine (Prozac) include headaches, difficulty sleeping, and tiredness. Don't suddenly stop this medication if you've been taking it for a while; doing so can lead to symptoms of withdrawal.
Indications of Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Indications for•Depression in people ages 12 years and older•Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and olderIndications forPros and Cons of Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Pros and Const for SSRIPros•First-choice medication for anxiety and depression•Only need to take it once a day•Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants•Can be taken with or without foodCons•Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits•Risk of certain sexual problems•Can raise your risk for bleeds•Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking itPros and Const for SSRIPros•Good choice for treating depression, OCD, and panic disorder•Taken by mouth, typically once daily (IR capsules and liquid) or once weekly (DR capsules, for depression only)•Can be taken with or without foodCons•Can take up to 2 months for you to feel the full effects of the medication•Can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts and/or behavior in those age 24 or younger•Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels•Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking itCommon Side Effects of Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Common Side Effects for•Headache (24%)•Nausea (15-18%)•Ejaculation problems (9-14%)•Sleepiness (6-13%)•Trouble sleeping (9-12%)•Dry mouth (6-9%)•Diarrhea (8%)•Tiredness (5-8%)Common Side Effects for•Difficulty falling asleep (up to 33%)•Nausea (up to 29%)•Headache (21%)•Weakness (up to 21%)•Diarrhea (up to 18%)•Low appetite (up to 17%)•Drowsiness (up to 17%)•Anxiety (up to 15%)•Nervousness (up to 14%)•Tremor (up to 13%)•Dry mouth (up to 12%)•Throat pain (up to 11%)•Yawning (up to 11%)•Low sex drive (up to 11%)Warnings of Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Common Side Effects for•Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior•Serotonin syndrome•Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly•Risk of bleeding•Not for use alone in bipolar disorder•Glaucoma•Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)•Low blood sodium levels•Sexual problemsCommon Side Effects for•Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts and behavior•Anxiety and trouble sleeping•Serotonin syndrome•Severe allergic reactions•Not for use alone in bipolar disorder•Risk of bleeding•Glaucoma•Low blood sodium levels•Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)Prices with our coupons for Escitalopram vs. Fluoxetine
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.