Antidepressants

    Sertraline vs Escitalopram

    Compare Sertraline (Zoloft) and Escitalopram (Lexapro) for depression and anxiety.

    sertraline
    VS
    escitalopram

    Head-to-Head Comparison

    Categorysertralineescitalopram
    Effectiveness
    Effective for depression, OCD, panic, PTSD, social anxiety
    Highly effective for depression and generalized anxiety, best-tolerated SSRI
    Cost
    $10-15/month generic
    $10-20/month generic
    Side Effects
    Nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, sexual dysfunction
    Minimal side effects, lowest discontinuation rate of all SSRIs
    Convenience
    Once daily
    Once daily
    Insurance Coverage
    Widely covered
    Widely covered

    Key Differences

    • Escitalopram has fewest drug interactions of all SSRIs
    • Sertraline approved for more indications (OCD, PTSD)
    • Escitalopram ranked #1 for tolerability in STAR*D trial
    • Sertraline slightly more activating

    Similarities

    • Both are SSRIs
    • Once daily dosing
    • Both generic and affordable
    • Similar onset (2-4 weeks)

    Which Is Best For You?

    sertraline is Best For:

    • OCD
    • PTSD
    • Patients needing broad indication coverage
    • Social anxiety disorder
    Learn More About sertraline

    escitalopram is Best For:

    • GAD
    • MDD with minimal side effects priority
    • First-time antidepressant users
    • Elderly patients
    Learn More About escitalopram

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Lexapro or Zoloft better for anxiety?

    Both are effective. Escitalopram (Lexapro) is often preferred for GAD due to its tolerability profile. Sertraline (Zoloft) has broader FDA approvals including social anxiety and PTSD.

    Which has fewer side effects, Sertraline or Escitalopram?

    Escitalopram generally has fewer side effects and the lowest discontinuation rate among SSRIs in comparative studies.

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    Venlafaxine vs Duloxetine

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    Compare Prices for sertraline and escitalopram

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