• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Choosing Which Is Right for You

Published: January 25, 2023 Updated: January 25, 2023
Published: 01/25/2023 Updated: 01/25/2023
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Key DifferencesKey Differences
  • How Do Zoloft & Lexapro Work?Zoloft & Lexapro
  • How Are Lexapro & Zoloft Used in Treatment?Treatments
  • Side Effects of Lexapro & ZoloftSide Effects
  • Insurance Coverage & Cost EffectivenessInsurance
  • Zoloft vs. Lexapro: Warnings & Associated RisksWarning & Risk
  • Interactions With Lexapro vs. ZoloftInteractions
  • Lexapro or Zoloft: Which Is More Effective?Which Is More Effective
  • Questions to Ask Your Health TeamQuestion to Ask
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are medications that can be used to treat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Taking either drug can result in side effects such as nausea, insomnia, and dry mouth. A doctor will determine whether Lexapro or Zoloft is suitable for a patient based on their age, the disorder being treated, and pre-existing health conditions.

Boxed Warning: Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Boxed Warning: Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Certain People
Escitalopram, the active ingredient in Lexapro, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Escitalopram can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with escitalopram and any other medications before starting treatment.

Boxed Warning: Sertraline (Zoloft)

Boxed Warning: Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Certain People
Sertraline, the active ingredient in Zoloft, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Sertraline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with sertraline and any other medications before starting treatment.

Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Key Differences

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that work by regulating the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain.1, 2 This balances serotonin levels which plays an important role in influencing one’s mood and mental well-being.3 Lexapro and Zoloft are only available through prescription and can be prescribed by psychiatrists, primary care providers, licensed nurse practitioners, or licensed assistant physicians.

The table below compares the different components of each medication:1, 2

Key ComponentsZoloftLexapro
What is the generic Name?SertralineEscitalopram
What forms does it come in?Oral tablet
Oral solution
Oral tablet
Oral solution
What are the typical dosages?Tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
Solution: 20mg/mL
Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg
Solution: 1 mg/mL
How is it administered?OrallyOrally
Who can take it?Adults
Children over 12
Adults
Children over 12
Is there a risk of addiction?NoNo
Is there a risk of withdrawal effects?YesYes
Drug classSSRISSRI
How long is the typical treatment?Long-term (six months to one year)Long-term (several months to years)

How Do Zoloft & Lexapro Work?

Lexapro is FDA-approved for treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Similarly, Zoloft is approved for certain types of depression and anxiety, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). As noted, both medications block serotonin reuptake in the body, leading to increased levels of the neurotransmitter.1

While Lexapro and Zoloft work in the same ways, they each have different chemical compositions and associated side effects. A prescriber will determine which medication is better suited for a patient.

How Are Lexapro & Zoloft Used in Treatment?

Lexapro and Zoloft can be prescribed to treat several conditions including depression and anxiety.

The table below compares the different uses of medication: 1, 2

ConditionsZoloftLexapro
DepressionFDA-approvedYes, on-label
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)FDA-approvedYes, on-label
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)FDA-approvedNo
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)FDA-approvedNo
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)FDA-approvedNo

Side Effects of Lexapro & Zoloft

Like many antidepressants, research shows that taking Lexapro and Zoloft may result in side effects. Sometimes, these initial reactions improve within one or two weeks into treatment.4 However, these vary from person to person depending on their age.

The table below compares the possible side effects of each medication: 1, 2

Side EffectsZoloftLexapro
Nausea26%18%
Diarrhea20%8%
Sexual problems8%14%
Dry mouth14%9%
Sleepiness11%13%
Insomnia20%12%

Severe Side Effects & Allergic Reactions

Side effects of Lexapro and Zoloft may be severe and require immediate medical attention. The likelihood of serious side effects greatly increases if either medication is taken alongside another substance such as alcohol. Additionally, those who have a history of allergic reactions to other antidepressants should alert their doctor before taking Lexapro or Zoloft.

Insurance Coverage & Cost Effectiveness

Prescriptions can be expensive, especially if a person does not have insurance. Lexapro and Zoloft are typically covered by both insurance and Medicare part D. Both prescriptions can be purchased at a lower price and co-pay in their generic forms.

Generally, Lexapro costs about $379 for 30, 10 mg tablets. Generic versions sell for between $0 and 30. Brand name Zoloft costs about $365 for 30, 10mg, while the generic version ranges between $0 and $13. Medications can also be purchased at a reduced price by using coupons from various providers.

Zoloft vs. Lexapro: Warnings & Associated Risks

It is important to be aware of both the benefits and risks associated with Zoloft and Lexapro. Children and young adults who take these medications may be at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, individuals with preexisting health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, seizures, or liver problems, may experience worsened symptoms. It is essential to disclose one’s medical history with a doctor before starting a medication.

Zoloft and Lexpro should be prescribed with caution to individuals who have a history of or are currently:1, 2

  • Liver problems
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Seizures
  • Glaucoma
  • Bleeding problems

Interactions With Lexapro vs. Zoloft

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Lexapro and Zoloft can change how Lexapro and Zoloft work in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Just like other antidepressants, Lexapro and Zoloft have unique chemical components that can interact with other substances, medications, or dietary supplements. For this reason, mixing other substances with Lexapro or Zoloft is not recommended. Consuming alcohol with either medication can worsen the sedative effects of alcohol such as drowsiness and dizziness. Discuss these possibilities with a doctor before considering Lexapro or Zoloft.

Substances that can interact with Lexapro and Zoloft include:1, 2

  • Blood thinners
  • NSAIDs
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Others SSRIs
  • Migraine medications
  • Pimozide
  • MAOIs
  • Thioridazine
  • Alcohol

Lexapro or Zoloft: Which Is More Effective?

Both Lexapro and Zoloft have been proven to be more effective than placebo medications in clinical trials.1 One study suggested that Lexapro may be better tolerated than Zoloft, as findings implied that Lexapro’s binding site increased its beneficial effects.6 However, more research is needed to determine which medication is more successful in treatment.

Do Either Work Faster or Last Longer?

Individuals taking Lexapro or Zoloft may not experience improved symptoms until a few weeks after their initial dosage.5 Everyone reacts differently to medication, but antidepressants typically begin to work within four weeks. However, some may not experience symptom relief for six or eight weeks.

Can You Take Lexapro & Zoloft Together?

Both Lexapro and Zoloft are SSRIs that can interact with each other, possibly resulting in serotonin syndrome. Combining these medications can result in excess serotonin in the body which can be life-threatening.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

It’s always important to discuss the risks associated with antidepressants before considering Zoloft or Lexapro. A prescriber will assess a patient’s medical history in order to determine which medication is better suited for them.

Questions to ask your care team when considering Lexapro vs. Zoloft include:

  • Is it safe to take Lexapro or Zoloft with my other medications?
  • Will my insurance cover Lexapro or Zoloft?
  • Does my medical history increase the risk of side effects?
  • How long can I expect side effects to last?
  • Which one is better for treating anxiety?
  • How often should I see you for checkups while taking Lexapro or Zoloft?
  • What are the best online psychiatry options to get a prescription?
  • Can I take Lexapro and Zoloft together?
  • Can I overdose on Lexapro or Zoloft?

Final Thoughts

Lexapro and Zoloft can be used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. As a person’s body adjusts to either medication, they may experience mild side effects. Some patients may experience persistent side effects. However, if side effects worsen, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention. Discuss the benefits and risks of Lexparo and Zoloft with a prescriber.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

Virtual Psychiatry  

Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with top-rated psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment within a week. Free Assessment

Hims / Hers  – If you’re living with anxiety or depression, finding the right medication match may make all the difference. Get FDA approved medication prescribed by your dedicated Hims / Hers Healthcare Provider and delivered right to your door. Plans start at $25 per month (first month). Get Started

Medication + Therapy 

Brightside Health –Together, medication and therapy can help you feel like yourself, faster. Brightside Health treatment plans start at $95 per month. United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna and Aetna accepted. Following a free online evaluation and receiving a prescription, you can get FDA approved medications delivered to your door. Free Assessment

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Brightside, Hims / Hers, and  Talkiatry.

For Further Reading

  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (“MAT”) For Opioid Use Disorder
  • MAT/MOUD Advocacy Toolkit – Legal Action Center
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – SAMHSAmedication-assisted-treatment
  • Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Before, During, and After
  • Addiction Statistics and Facts
  • Best Addiction Recovery Blogs
  • Best Sobriety Apps
5 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • LEXAPRO– escitalopram tablet, film coated LEXAPRO- escitalopram solution. (2022). DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=13bb8267-1cab-43e5-acae-55a4d957630a

  • ZOLOFT– sertraline hydrochloride tablet, film coated ZOLOFT- sertraline hydrochloride solution, concentrate. (2021). DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=fe9e8b7d-61ea-409d-84aa-3ebd79a046b5

  • Depression: How effective are antidepressants? (2020). InformedHealth. Retrieved from
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/

  • Antidepressants. (2022). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html

  • Sanchez, C., Reines, E. H., & Montgomery, S. A. (2014). A comparative review of escitalopram, paroxetine, and sertraline: Are they all alike? International clinical psychopharmacology, 29(4), 185–196. Retrieved from  https://doi.org/10.1097/YIC.0000000000000023

Recent Articles

How to Get a Paxil (Paroxetine) Prescription_ Everything You Need to Know
How to Get a Paxil (Paroxetine) Prescription: Everything You Need to Know
Paxil is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Your doctor may prescribe this as a part...
';
How to Get a Celexa (Citalopram) Prescription_ Everything You Need to Know
How to Get a Celexa (Citalopram) Prescription: Everything You Need to Know
Celexa is a medication used to treat depression. It may be prescribed by a doctor depending on an individual’s...
';
Zoloft _ Alcohol_ Understanding the Risks
Zoloft & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks
It is contraindicated to mix Zoloft and alcohol, as alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and...
';
Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal_ Symptoms_ Duration_ _ How to Cope
Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Duration, & How to Cope
Effexor (venlafaxine) is only available via prescription and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Stopping the medication...
';
Lexapro vs. Prozac
Lexapro vs. Prozac: Choosing Which Is Right for You
Both Lexapro and Prozac are effective medications for relieving symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They...
';
Lexapro & Weight Gain: Everything You Need to Know
Lexapro & Weight Gain: Everything You Need to Know
Most people respond well to 'Lexapro, but side effects may include weight gain. However, knowing how to manage a...
';
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Key DifferencesKey Differences
  • How Do Zoloft & Lexapro Work?Zoloft & Lexapro
  • How Are Lexapro & Zoloft Used in Treatment?Treatments
  • Side Effects of Lexapro & ZoloftSide Effects
  • Insurance Coverage & Cost EffectivenessInsurance
  • Zoloft vs. Lexapro: Warnings & Associated RisksWarning & Risk
  • Interactions With Lexapro vs. ZoloftInteractions
  • Lexapro or Zoloft: Which Is More Effective?Which Is More Effective
  • Questions to Ask Your Health TeamQuestion to Ask
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept