What’s the Difference Between Lexapro and Zoloft?
By Jennifer Hadley••Updated April 22, 2021
Lexapro and Zoloft are commonly prescribed medications used to treat depression.
Both Lexapro and Zoloft have generic alternatives that are typically less expensive than their brand name counterparts. The generic for Lexapro is escitalopram. The generic for Zoloft is sertraline.
Though both medications belong to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), there are some differences between the drugs. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between Lexapro and Zoloft.
What are the differences between Lexapro and Zoloft?
Differences between Lexapro and Zoloft include differences in the conditions they are prescribed to treat, dosage, price, side effects, and drug interactions.
Conditions Treated
Because Zoloft and Lexapro are both prescribed to treat depression they are commonly referred to as antidepressants. However, they are also prescribed to treat other mental health conditions and mood disorders. In fact, the main difference between Lexapro and Zoloft is that Zoloft is approved to treat many more mental health conditions than Lexapro.
Lexapro is only approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and depression. Zofolt, on the other hand, is prescribed to treat depression, as well as: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Panic disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Social anxiety disorder
Dosage:
One difference between Lexapro and Zoloft can be seen in the available dosages of the medications. While both medications are available in oral tablets, and solutions, the strengths are different.
Zoloft is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets. As a solution, Zoloft is available as 20 mg/ml. Lexapro is available in 5 mg,10 mg, 20 mg tablets, and as a 1 mg/ml solution.
Cost
The cost of Zoloft and Lexapro will vary based upon the pharmacy you get it from, the dosage, and whether you get the generic instead of the brand drug. RxSaver prescription drug coupons may help you save on generic Lexapro and generic Zoloft.
The cost of generic Zoloft, sertraline, without insurance starts at $9.00* for 100 mg and 30 tablets when using an RxSaver coupon.
The cost of generic Lexapro, escitalopram, without insurance starts at $8.11* for 10 mg and 30 tablets when using an RxSaver Coupon.
Common Side Effects
Both Lexapro and Zoloft can cause unwanted side effects. Common side effects of Lexapro and Zoloft include:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Drowsiness
- Sexual problems
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain
Both SSRIs also come with warnings regarding the potential for suicidal thinking and behavior in children, teens, and young adults.
Medication Interactions
Both Zoloft and Lexapro have the potential to interact with a variety of medications including some:
- Blood thinners
- Anxiety medications
- Anticonvulsants/anti-seizure medications
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) medications
- MAOIs (a class of antidepressant medications)
- Mood disorder medications
- Migraine medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Sleeping medications
If you’re pregnant, talk with your health care provider about taking Zoloft or Lexapro.
Is Lexapro better than Zoloft?
The only way to determine which medication is best for you is by discussing with your health care provider. Neither medication is universally better than the other.
How to Determine Which Medication is Right for You
Before beginning a new medication for depression, or other mental health condition, be sure to provide your health care provider with a complete medical history. Include all medications you are currently taking, and all underlying health conditions. Be as specific as possible about your symptoms, so that your health care provider can recommend the most appropriate medication.
Sertraline: 100 mg / 30 tablets
Escitalopram: 10 mg / 30 tablets
*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 4/22/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.
Jennifer Hadley
Jen Hadley is a freelance writer and journalist based in Los Angeles, who writes extensively about the medical, legal, health care, and consumer products industries. Jen is a regular contributor to RxSaver.
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS., is a pharmacist who earned her PharmD from St. John’s University in Queens, NY. She maintains an active practice, serving as a Board-Certified Pediatric Pharmacotherapy Specialist at a large metropolitan teaching hospital in New York City. Carina has also published in pharmacy journals and works as a consultant reviewing medical articles for publication.
The information on this site is generalized and is not medical advice. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard seeking advice or delay in seeking treatment because of something you have read on our site. RxSaver makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of this information.
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