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Compare Viibryd vs. Zoloft

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

Key takeaways

Viibryd (vilazodone) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both medications used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), but they have some key differences. Viibryd is a combination selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and a serotonin (5HT1A) receptor partial agonist, while Zoloft is a traditional SSRI. This means Viibryd not only increases serotonin levels but also directly acts on serotonin receptors. Zoloft is approved to treat a wider range of mental health disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and social anxiety disorder, whereas Viibryd only treats MDD. Both medications are taken once daily and are available in generic forms. Common side effects for Viibryd include diarrhea, nausea, and headache, while Zoloft commonly causes nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth. Viibryd is less likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects compared to Zoloft. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, so it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions when discontinuing use.

  • Vilazodone (Viibryd)
    Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Vilazodone (Viibryd)
    Sertraline (Zoloft)

  • Summary of Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Summary for SSRI / 5HT1A receptor partial agonist
    Prescription only

    Vilazodone (Viibryd) is a medication that treats depression in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically just once daily. As with most antidepressants, you should never stop this medication all of a sudden because doing so can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Some of the more common side effects of vilazodone (Viibryd) include diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Research suggests it's less likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects compared to some other antidepressants. Vilazodone (Viibryd) is available as both brand and generics.

    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 Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)
    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 Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Pros and Const for SSRI / 5HT1A receptor partial agonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Taken once daily
    •Compared to other antidepressants, vilazodone (Viibryd) has a lower risk of weight gain and sexual side effects
    •Can be used in older adults (65 years of age or older)
    Cons
    •Might take several weeks before you feel the full benefits of vilazodone (Viibryd)
    •Not FDA-approved for children
    •Must be taken with food
    •Can cause stomach-related side effects, like nausea and diarrhea
    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 Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (26-29%)
    •Nausea (22-24%)
    •Headache (14-15%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (26%)
    •Diarrhea (20%)
    •Difficulty sleeping (20%)
    •Dry mouth (14%)
    •Sleepiness (12%)

  • Warnings of Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Common Side Effects for
    •Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Serious bleeding
    •Low sodium levels in the blood
    •Eye problems
    •Worsening of mania or hypomania
    •Sexual problems
    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 Viibryd vs. Zoloft

    Learn more about Vilazodone
    Learn more about Sertraline

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