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Lexapro vs. Prozac

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

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.

Escitalopram

(Lexapro)

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Fluoxetine

(Prozac)

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Summary for Lexapro

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.

Indications for Lexapro

Pros and Cons for Lexapro

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 Lexapro

  • 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 Lexapro

  • 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 Prozac

Prescription only

Fluoxetine (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 for Prozac

Pros and Cons for Prozac

Pros

  • Good choice for treating depression, OCD, and panic disorder
  • Less likely to make you sleepy compared to some other antidepressants, such as paroxetine (Paxil)
  • Taken by mouth, typically once daily (IR capsules and liquid) or once weekly (DR capsules, for depression only)
  • Can be taken with or without food

Cons

  • 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 it

Common Side Effects for Prozac

  • 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 for Prozac

  • 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 Lexapro vs. Prozac

Price Card Drug Icon
Escitalopram30 tablets / 10mg
$11.96$153.46
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Fluoxetine30 tablets / 20mg
$15.01$132.69
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