Lexapro vs Zoloft for Anxiety, Which is Better For You? Lexapro vs Zoloft Weight Gain. Switching From Zoloft to Lexapro.

Zoloft vs Lexapro Side-Effects

In treating anxiety and depression, two commonly prescribed medications, Zoloft (Sertraline) and Lexapro (Escitalopram), stand out as popular. While they both belong to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and are highly effective in managing these conditions, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Learn More:

• Is Zoloft Addictive? Side Effects, Withdrawal, and Treatment of Zoloft Addiction.
• How Long Does Zoloft Stay in Your System (Sertraline). Zoloft Half Life. Does Zoloft Show Up on a Drug Test?
• (sertraline) Zoloft Side Effects In Women. Side Effects of Zoloft in Women: Sertraline Uses, Interactions & Overdose Dangers
• Can Zoloft And Alcohol Kill You? The Dangers & Risks
• Managing Zoloft Withdrawal. Zoloft Withdrawal Symptoms. Zoloft Withdrawal Timeline. Side Effects & Detox Treatment for Sertraline Withdrawal.
• Over The Counter Medicine For Anxiety And Depression

264 million

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting a significant portion of the population. An estimated 264 million people globally were living with anxiety disorders in 2017.

Source: WHO

$42 billion

The economic costs associated with anxiety disorders are substantial. Anxiety disorders cost more than $42 billion annually in healthcare expenses and lost productivity in the United States.

Source: Journal of Clinical Psychiatry

Difference Between Zoloft and Lexapro for Withdrawal Effects

The main difference between Zoloft and Lexapro concerning withdrawal effects lies in their half-lives. Zoloft, with a shorter half-life of about 24 hours, tends to produce more prominent withdrawal symptoms in some users. These can include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and sensory disturbances. In contrast, Lexapro’s longer half-life of about 27-32 hours usually results in milder withdrawal effects, making it generally easier to discontinue. However, it’s essential to emphasize that withdrawal symptoms can vary significantly among individuals, and the discontinuation process should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize potential side effects.

Switching from Lexapro to Zoloft

switching from Zoloft to Lexapro or any medication should be done under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional. Here are some key points to consider when transitioning from Lexapro to Zoloft:

• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Your healthcare provider will assess your current health status, the reasons for switching medications, and individual needs. They can guide the transition process.
• Gradual Transition: Abruptly discontinuing Lexapro can lead to withdrawal symptoms. To minimize these effects, your healthcare provider will likely recommend tapering off Lexapro while simultaneously starting Zoloft at a low dose. This gradual transition can help your body adjust to the new medication.
• Monitor Side Effects: During the transition, pay close attention to any side effects or changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior. Report any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Dosage Adjustments: Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of Zoloft based on your response and any side effects. Finding the correct dose that works for you may take some time.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Maintaining regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan is essential.
• Patience: The full therapeutic effects of Zoloft may take several weeks to become apparent. Be patient and give the new medication time to work.
• Lifestyle Factors: Along with medication, consider other aspects of your lifestyle that can contribute to your overall well-being. Diet, exercise, stress management, and social support can affect mental health.

Both Lexapro and Zoloft are considered to have a minimal potential for addiction. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a family of drugs commonly used to treat mental health issues like depression and anxiety. The possibility for abuse of Lexapro and Zoloft is summarized here.

• Lexapro (Escitalopram): Lexapro has a low potential for addiction or abuse, according to most experts. No euphoria or “high” is produced hence, there is no risk of addiction. Those prescribed Lexapro do so to alleviate their symptoms, not because they find the drug delightful or addicting. Always follow your doctor’s orders when using Lexapro, and never decide to up your dose alone.
• Sertraline (Zoloft) is another medicine with a low potential for addiction, just like Lexapro. It raises serotonin levels in the brain, where they can do their work, and has no addictive properties. Anxiety and depression sufferers who take Zoloft typically aren’t looking for a fun time. It should, however, be used strictly according to the instructions provided.

Abruptly discontinuing Lexapro or Zoloft after prolonged use may result in withdrawal symptoms; however, such symptoms are not always symptomatic of addiction. They have more to do with how your body responds to altered medication levels. When stopping or switching medications, working closely with your doctor is essential to lessen the likelihood of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Lexapro vs Zoloft Weight Gain

Weight gain is a potential side effect of both Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline), which are common antidepressant medications. However, not everyone experiences weight gain when taking these medications, and for some individuals, weight changes may be minimal or temporary. The impact on weight can vary from person to person and may depend on several factors, including their response to the medication. Here’s an overview of weight gain associated with Lexapro and Zoloft:

Lexapro (Escitalopram):

• Potential for Weight Gain: Lexapro is associated with weight gain in some individuals. This side effect may be more common in long-term users. The exact mechanisms contributing to weight gain with Lexapro are not fully understood, but it may be related to changes in appetite and metabolism.
• The magnitude of Weight Gain: Weight gain associated with Lexapro is typically modest, with most users gaining less than ten pounds. However, a small percentage of individuals may experience more substantial weight gain.

Zoloft (Sertraline):

• Potential for Weight Gain: Zoloft is also known to cause weight gain in some users. As with Lexapro, the underlying mechanisms are not well-defined but may involve appetite and metabolic changes.
• The magnitude of Weight Gain: Like Lexapro, weight gain with Zoloft is often relatively modest, and many users may not experience significant changes in their weight. However, individual responses can vary, and some may experience more pronounced weight gain.

Managing Weight on Antidepressants: If you’re concerned about weight changes while taking Lexapro or Zoloft, discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider is essential. They can monitor your weight and help you develop strategies to manage it. Sometimes, they may consider alternative medications with different side effect profiles. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can be beneficial in managing weight while on these medications.