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Compare Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

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

Key takeaways

Nefazodone (generic only) and sertraline (Zoloft) are both used to treat depression, but they belong to different medication classes. Nefazodone is an atypical antidepressant that increases serotonin and norepinephrine levels, while Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that specifically raises serotonin levels. Nefazodone is taken twice daily and has a serious risk of liver damage, making it less commonly prescribed. In contrast, Zoloft is taken once daily and is also approved for various anxiety disorders, including OCD and PTSD. Zoloft can cause weight gain and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, whereas nefazodone is not typically associated with weight changes but can still cause withdrawal symptoms. Both medications can worsen depression and increase suicidal thoughts, especially in younger people.

  • Nefazodone
    Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Nefazodone
    Sertraline (Zoloft)

  • Summary of Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    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.

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    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 of Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)
    •Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
    •Panic disorder (PD)
    •Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
    •Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
    •Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

  • Pros and Cons of Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    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)
    Pros and Const for SSRI
    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 of Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (26%)
    •Diarrhea (20%)
    •Difficulty sleeping (20%)
    •Dry mouth (14%)
    •Sleepiness (12%)

  • Warnings of Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •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

  • Prices with our coupons for Nefazodone vs. Zoloft

    Learn more about Nefazodone
    Learn more about Sertraline

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