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Compare Zoloft vs. Ativan

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

Key takeaways

Sertraline (Zoloft) and lorazepam (Ativan) are both medications approved to treat anxiety. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that also treats depression and other mental-health conditions. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and is typically taken once daily. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that works by increasing the levels of a chemical called GABA, which helps calm the mind and body. It's typically taken 1 to 3 times daily. Lorazepam typically starts working quickly, but sertraline can take several weeks to improve your symptoms. Unlike sertraline, lorazepam is a controlled substance that carries a risk of misuse and dependence. So it may not be a safe option for those with a history of substance use disorder.

  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
    Lorazepam (Ativan)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
    Lorazepam (Ativan)

  • Summary of Zoloft vs. Ativan

    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).

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

  • Indications of Zoloft vs. Ativan

    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)
    Indications for
    •Anxiety disorders
    •Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
    •Short-term relief of anxiety
    •Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes - injection only
    •Surgery-related anxiety, usually given shortly before anesthesia - injection only

  • Pros and Cons of Zoloft vs. Ativan

    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
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Might start to work within 30 minutes to manage anxiety symptoms
    •Available as oral solution, good option for those who can't swallow tablets
    •Some forms available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Short-term use only because risk of dependence and memory problems
    •Can drowsiness, and dizziness
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Can't take with alcohol

  • Common Side Effects of Zoloft vs. Ativan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (26%)
    •Diarrhea (20%)
    •Difficulty sleeping (20%)
    •Dry mouth (14%)
    •Sleepiness (12%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (16%)
    •Dizziness (7%)
    •Weakness (4%)
    •Unsteadiness (3%)

  • Warnings of Zoloft vs. Ativan

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Trouble breathing
    •Risk of agitation and restlessness
    •Harm to babies
    •Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)

  • Prices with our coupons for Zoloft vs. Ativan

    Learn more about Sertraline
    Learn more about Lorazepam

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