Escitalopram
(Lexapro)
Get free couponsSertraline
(Zoloft)
Get free couponsSummary for Escitalopram
Escitalopram, 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.
Indications for Escitalopram
- Depression in people ages 12 years and older
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and older
Pros and Cons for Escitalopram
Pros
- 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 food
Cons
- 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 it
Common Side Effects for Escitalopram
- 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%)
Warnings for Escitalopram
- 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 problems
Summary for Sertraline
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 Sertraline
Pros and Cons for Sertraline
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 Sertraline
- Nausea (26%)
- Diarrhea (20%)
- Difficulty sleeping (20%)
- Dry mouth (14%)
- Sleepiness (12%)
Warnings for Sertraline
- 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
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