Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues? Have you been to a therapist, psychiatrist, or medical doctor who has suggested you try medication to help you deal with your symptoms and improve your well-being?

If so, it’s likely the medical professional suggested an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Two of the most common SSRIs are Lexapro and Zoloft.

Wondering what the difference is and which might be the best fit for you? Here is more information on Lexapro vs Zoloft.

What Is An SSRI?

Before we go into Lexapro vs Zoloft, it’s important to first understand what an SSRI is. These classes of medication work by blocking the reabsorption of the neurotransmitter serotonin by the nerve cells in the brain. This allows for more serotonin to be available to relay messages between nerve cells and have a positive impact on emotions.

What Does Lexapro Treat?

Lexapro, which has been available to the public since 2002, is prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and other conditions such as panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What Does Zoloft Treat?

Zoloft has been around for almost a decade longer than Lexapro and was approved by the FDA in 1991. It is usually prescribed to treat many of the same conditions as Lexapro such as major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It can also be used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder, social anxiety disorder, and a range of eating disorders.

What Are The Dosages of Lexapro Vs. Zoloft?

Dosages of Lexapro usually start at 10 milligrams per day but can be increased to 20 milligrams per day for certain conditions. Zoloft, on the other hand, is usually prescribed at 50 milligrams per day with a maximum dosage of 200 milligrams a day.

Side Effects of Lexapro Vs. Zoloft

Unfortunately, most prescription medications do not come without side effects. For Lexapro, these include headaches, insomnia, stomach pain or distress, sweating, and sexual dysfunction. Zoloft has many of the same side effects but can also include stunted emotions, sedation, and dizziness.

Lexapro Vs. Zoloft Drug Interactions

It’s important to understand how both Lexapro and Zoloft interact with other drugs and to tell your medical professional what medications you are taking to ensure your safety. You should not take Lexapro if you’re on amphetamines, St. John’s Wort, any other SSRI, lithium, an MAOI, Tramadol (a pain medication), or Buspirone (an anxiety treatment).

Zoloft should not be taken if you are on Thioridazine or Pimozide (both antipsychotics) or an MAOI and cautions should be used if you are taking aspirin or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, another SSRI, or any medication used to prevent blood clots.

Lexapro VS. Zoloft: Which Is Right for Me?

If you are currently dealing with a mental health issue and are wondering which medication is right for you, talk to your medical professional. He or she will go over all the information need to know regarding the two drugs to see which is a better fit for your unique situation. If addiction is the underlying cause of your mental health struggles, reach out to The Edge Treatment Center. Their compassionate team would love to lend a hand in your recovery.