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.
