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Compare Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

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

Key takeaways

Lexapro (escitalopram) and nefazodone are both used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and is also approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is a first-choice option for both conditions and is available in both tablet and liquid forms. Nefazodone, on the other hand, is an atypical antidepressant that affects both serotonin and norepinephrine levels. It is not a first-choice option due to its risk of serious liver damage. Lexapro is typically taken once daily, while nefazodone needs to be taken twice daily. Lexapro can cause side effects like nausea and trouble sleeping, whereas nefazodone can cause headaches, dry mouth, and dizziness. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Nefazodone
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Nefazodone

  • Summary of Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    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.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nefazodone is used to treat depression, but it’s usually not a first-choice option because it can cause serious liver damage. Some side effects include headache, dry mouth, nausea, and drowsiness. But, it's not likely to cause weight gain or weight loss. Withdrawal symptoms aren't typically with this medication, but it still can't be ruled out. Nefazodone is only available as a generic medication since the brand name Serzone has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    Indications for
    •Depression in people ages 12 years and older
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and older
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    Pros and Const for SSRI
    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
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Comes in different strengths, so your provider can adjust your dose if needed
    •Okay to use in people with kidney problems
    •Not associated with weight changes (weight gain or weight loss)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Risk of life-threatening liver failure
    •Have to take it twice daily
    •Can take many weeks for the full effects to kick in
    •Interacts with many medications, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) and alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Common Side Effects of Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    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
    •Headache (36%)
    •Sleepiness (25%)
    •Dry mouth (25%)
    •Nausea (22%)
    •Dizziness (17%)
    •Constipation (14%)
    •Trouble sleeping (11%)
    •Weakness (11%)
    •Lightheadedness (10%)
    •Blurred vision (9%)
    •Indigestion (9%)

  • Warnings of Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    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 problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and suicidal thoughts and behavior
    •Liver problems
    •Bipolar disorder
    •Eye problems
    •Drop in blood pressure upon standing
    •Seizures
    •Heart conditions

  • Prices with our coupons for Lexapro vs. Nefazodone

    Learn more about Escitalopram
    Learn more about Nefazodone

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