Sertraline vs. Amoxapine for Depression and Anxiety: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Sertraline

(Zoloft)

Amoxapine

Summary for Sertraline

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 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

Summary for Amoxapine

Prescription only

Amoxapine is an antidepressant that's used for people who have both depression and anxiety. But, it's not a first-choice option because it has a higher risk of side effects. Drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurry vision are the most common side effects of amoxapine. The brand name Asendin is no longer sold in the United States, but it's still available as a lower-cost generic tablet.

Indications for Amoxapine

Depression that comes along with anxiety or agitation

Pros and Cons for Amoxapine

Pros

Doses up to 300 mg can be taken once a day.
Might work faster than similar medications like amitriptyline or imipramine
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Causes a lot of side effects
Higher risk of side effects in older adults
Not a good option for people with a history of seizures

Common Side Effects for Amoxapine

Drowsiness (14%)
Dry mouth (14%)
Constipation (12%)
Blurred vision (7%)

Warnings for Amoxapine

Suicidal thoughts and behavior
Possible bipolar disorder
Eye problems
Difficulty controlling movements
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Prices with our coupons for Sertraline vs. Amoxapine

Sertraline30 tablets / 50mg

$9.62-

Get free coupons

More Information

Amoxapine90 tablets / 50mg

$35.28$102.99

Get free coupons

More Information

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.

Compare
Sertraline vs. Amoxapine

Sertraline

Amoxapine

Summary for Sertraline

Indications for Sertraline

Pros and Cons for Sertraline

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Sertraline

Warnings for Sertraline

Summary for Amoxapine

Indications for Amoxapine

Pros and Cons for Amoxapine

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Amoxapine

Warnings for Amoxapine

Prices with our coupons for Sertraline vs. Amoxapine

Browse medications by letter

Good news for your inbox

Sertraline

Amoxapine

Summary for Sertraline

Indications for Sertraline

Pros and Cons for Sertraline

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Sertraline

Warnings for Sertraline

Summary for Amoxapine

Indications for Amoxapine

Pros and Cons for Amoxapine

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Amoxapine

Warnings for Amoxapine