Quick Summary:
- Celexa (citalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both SSRIs used to treat depression and anxiety-related conditions.
- Celexa is typically used for depression, while Zoloft has broader FDA-approved uses.
- While both SSRIs share several side effects, Zoloft is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. Celexa, on the other hand, may cause more drowsiness for some people.
- A psychiatrist can help determine which medication aligns best with your treatment goals.
Understanding the differences between Celexa (citalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) is essential before you take either. Both medications are in the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by altering the amount of serotonin in the brain. Despite being in the same class, there are some key differences between Celexa vs Zoloft.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about these popular antidepressant medications. Then, with your psychiatrist, primary care doctor, or healthcare provider, you can discuss if one of these drugs might fit into your treatment plan.
What’s the Difference Between Celexa and Zoloft?
Like all drugs, there are significant differences between Celexa and Zoloft — from how they work, to what they treat, to how much you take. That’s why it’s so critical to learn as much as possible about these drugs before you decide to take either.
Side effects
While there are potential side effects for any drug you’re considering, Celexa treatment has been shown to be effective in treating major depressive disorder with fewer side effects than some older generations of antidepressants. Understanding the possible side effects of any SSRI with the help of a primary care provider, healthcare provider, or medical professional, is essential for effective mental health management.
Common Celexa side effects include the following, though not everyone will experience them:
- Nausea or queasiness
- Drowsiness or insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Change in sex drive or function
Common side effects of Zoloft include the following, but these may vary from person to person:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sexual side effects
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Weight change
Conditions they treat
Celexa is FDA-approved to treat depression. It’s also used off-label to treat several other conditions. ‘Off-label’ means doctors have seen that a drug can be effective, but hasn’t been approved for use by the FDA for that certain use.
Celexa off-label uses include:
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Social anxiety disorder
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Binge eating disorder
Zoloft is approved for depression treatment and a few other conditions.
Zoloft is an FDA-approved drug to treat:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
In addition to these approved uses, Zoloft can also be used off-label to treat:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Autism
- Personality disorders
- Disordered eating
Dosage amount
One difference between Celexa and Zoloft is dosage. It’s important to follow each antidepressant medication’s instructions for dosing very carefully.
Celexa is available in:
- Tablets — 10, 20, or 40 mgs
- Capsule — 30 mg
- Liquid — 10 mg/5mL
Zoloft is available in:
- Tablets — 25, 50, or 100 mgs
- Capsule — 150 – 200 mg
- Liquid — 20 mg/mL
Which is stronger, Celexa (citalopram) or Zoloft (sertraline)?
It’s common to compare the strength of citalopram vs sertraline. Both drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, the effectiveness of any drug will vary from person to person based on multiple factors, including diagnosis, age and weight, overall health condition, and other medications taken concurrently.
Similarities Between Celexa vs Zoloft
There are dosage similarities between these two medications — both generally start at lower doses and can be gradually increased based on response.
Other similarities include:
- Both are in the class of drugs known as SSRIs
- Overlap in side effects like nausea, dry mouth, and change in sex drive or function
- Many people tolerate SSRIs very well
- Both drugs alter serotonin levels in the brain
- Both can be used to treat depression
How they work
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications such as Celexa and Zoloft both work by increasing serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that sends messages. Too little serotonin can trigger anxiety symptoms or depression; balancing levels can boost and stabilize moods. SSRIs like Celexa and Zoloft can treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and some mood disorders.
Effective treatment for depression
Celexa vs Zoloft for depression can effectively alleviate depressive symptoms for many people. Increasing serotonin levels can result in a noticeable improvement in mood, and SSRIs are often considered first-line treatment.
In studies, Celexa has been found to be incredibly effective in treating depression. The efficacy of Zoloft has also been researched, and the results suggest that the drug can reduce symptoms like loss of interest in activities once enjoyed and low energy levels, both common with depression.
“Both Celexa and Zoloft are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). They increase serotonin breakdown in the neural synapse leading to an increased neurotransmitter that helps resolve depression symptoms.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir
FAQs About Celexa vs. Zoloft
Is Celexa or Zoloft better for anxiety?
Zoloft is generally considered more effective for anxiety disorders than Celexa. Zoloft (sertraline) has multiple FDA approvals for anxiety-related conditions, including panic disorder, PTSD, OCD, and social anxiety disorder. Celexa (citalopram) is primarily approved for depression and is used off-label for anxiety, but it typically has less research support for anxiety-specific treatment. The best choice depends on your symptoms, medical history, and how you tolerate each medication.
Is Celexa more sedating than Zoloft?
Celexa is more likely to cause drowsiness than Zoloft. While both are SSRIs and share several overlapping side effects, Celexa more commonly produces fatigue or sedation in some people. Zoloft tends to be more activating and is more often associated with gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea. Individual responses vary, so sedation can differ from person to person.
Which medication has fewer side effects?
Neither medication consistently has fewer side effects, but their side effect profiles differ. Celexa may be better tolerated by individuals who wish to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms, while Zoloft may be more suitable for those sensitive to fatigue or drowsiness. Both medications can cause sexual side effects, nausea, and dry mouth. Tolerability varies widely between individuals, so the “best” option depends on how your body responds and your overall health.
Determine if Celexa or Zoloft Is Right for You with Talkspace
Figuring out which antidepressant is right for you can take some time, but online psychiatrists at Talkspace can help. Talkspace psychiatrists can help you find the right effective treatment plan to improve your condition, reduce your symptoms, and help you reach your goals.
Reach out to Talkspace today to learn more about getting prescription for Celexa or Zoloft online. Find out if one of these antidepressants might be a good option to try.
Sources:
- Keller MB. Citalopram therapy for depression: a review of 10 years of European experience and data from U.S. clinical trials. J Clin Psychiatry. 2000;61(12):896-908. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11206593/. Accessed August 20, 2023.
- Lydiard RB, Perera P, Batzar E, Clary CM. From the bench to the Trench. The Primary Care Companion For CNS Disorders. 1999;1(5). doi:10.4088/pcc.v01n0504. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC181082/. Accessed August 20, 2023.
Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.
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