The drugs have similar mechanisms of action, increasing levels of a chemical calledserotoninthat plays a role in moods.
The decision is based on clinical research involving thousands of users.
By preventing this, more serotonin is available to act on the brain.
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Which Is More Effective?
As such, it can be considered “superior” to Zoloft in its ability to prevent serotonin uptake.
Both are started with a lower initial dose.
Side Effects
Comparatively, Zoloft causes side effects more frequently than Lexapro.
On the flip side, Lexapro is more likely to cause intolerable side effects.
This explains in part why Lexapro is approved for fewer mental disorders.
Lexapro and Zoloft can both interact with drugs that use CYP2D6 for metabolization.
In some cases, a dose adjustment or drug substitution may be needed.
With that said, the WAC does not reflect the price you have to pay at the pharmacy.
With insurance, the cost of the drugs may be partially or fully covered by your plan.
If not, there are manufacturercopayment and financial assistance programsfor qualified individuals that can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
There are also generic versions of Lexapro and Zoloft that can substantially lower prices compared to the brand-name versions.
There are also drug discount and coupon sites, like GoodRx, that can further cut your out-of-pocket expenses.
In the end, what might work for you may not work for someone else, and vice versa.
In some cases, a dose adjustment might help.
The same applies if side effects are affecting your ability to function or your quality of life.
Your healthcare provider can adjust your plan if medications alone aren’t enough.
Summary
Lexapro and Zoloft are two SSRI antidepressants that have different benefits and drawbacks.
Lexapro’s mechanism of action is stronger, but it is more likely to cause intolerable side effects.
On the flip side, Zoloft is more likely to cause side effects overall.
The best option is ultimately the one that works best for you based on your diagnosis.
If neither of these medications is effective for you, your doctor may suggest trying a different antidepressant.
Harvard Health.Serotonin: the natural mood booster.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) label.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) label.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) information.
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Patients for Affordable Drugs.January 2021 price hikes methodology.
