Key takeaways
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Prozac (fluoxetine) are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression, but they have some differences. Lexapro is also approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), while Prozac is used for a wider range of conditions, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia, panic disorder, depression from bipolar 1 disorder, and treatment-resistant depression. Lexapro is typically taken once daily, whereas Prozac can be taken once daily or, if using the delayed-release formulation, once weekly for depression. Common side effects for both include nausea and trouble sleeping, but Prozac is more likely to cause headaches and anxiety. Both medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in people under 24. Lexapro is considered a first-choice option for anxiety and depression, while Prozac is a good choice for multiple mental health conditions.
