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Compare Viibryd vs. Lexapro

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

Key takeaways

Vilazodone (Viibryd) and escitalopram (Lexapro) are both medications used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Vilazodone is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and a serotonin (5HT1A) receptor partial agonist, while escitalopram is solely an SSRI. This means that vilazodone not only increases serotonin levels in the brain but also directly acts on serotonin receptors. Escitalopram is also approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), whereas vilazodone is not. Vilazodone is less likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants. Both medications can cause nausea and headaches, but vilazodone is more likely to cause diarrhea. Escitalopram can be taken with or without food, while vilazodone must be taken with food. Both medications are available in generic forms and are taken once daily.

  • Vilazodone (Viibryd)
    Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Vilazodone (Viibryd)
    Escitalopram (Lexapro)

  • Summary of Viibryd vs. Lexapro

    Summary for SSRI/ 5HT1A receptor partial agonist
    Prescription only

    Vilazodone (Viibryd) helps treat depression in adults. It works in a similar way to the drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). You take vilazodone (Viibryd) by mouth once a day. Some common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Research suggests that it might be less likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects than some other antidepressants. But it can have many drug interactions. It's important not to stop taking this medication all of a sudden because it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Vilazodone (Viibryd) comes as both a brand-name and generic version.

    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.

  • Indications of Viibryd vs. Lexapro

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

  • Pros and Cons of Viibryd vs. Lexapro

    Pros and Const for SSRI/ 5HT1A receptor partial agonist
    Pros
    •Taken once a day
    •Might have a lower risk of weight gain and sexual side effects than other antidepressants
    •Okay for older adults (65 years of age or older) to take
    Cons
    •Might take several weeks before you feel a noticeable difference in your mood
    •Must take with food
    •Not approved for children
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Viibryd vs. Lexapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (26-29%)
    •Nausea (22-24%)
    •Headache (14-15%)
    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%)

  • Warnings of Viibryd vs. Lexapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    •Manic or hypomanic episode in people with bipolar disorder
    •Withdrawal symptoms
    •Worsening of glaucoma in certain people
    •Low sodium levels
    •Sexual side effects
    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

  • Prices with our coupons for Viibryd vs. Lexapro

    Learn more about Vilazodone
    Learn more about Escitalopram

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