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Compare Zoloft vs. Cymbalta

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

Key takeaways

Sertraline (Zoloft) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are both medications used to treat depression and anxiety, but they belong to different classes. Sertraline (Zoloft) is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, while duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) that raises both serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Sertraline (Zoloft) is also used for conditions like OCD, PTSD, and social anxiety disorder, whereas duloxetine (Cymbalta) can treat nerve pain from diabetes, fibromyalgia, and long-term pain in muscles and joints. Both medications are taken orally, but sertraline (Zoloft) is available as a tablet and liquid, while duloxetine (Cymbalta) comes in capsule form. Common side effects for sertraline (Zoloft) include nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth, whereas duloxetine (Cymbalta) can cause nausea, headache, and dry mouth. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, and they are available in generic forms.

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