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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are two prescription medications classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat mood disorders, like depression and anxiety. The drugs have similar mechanisms of action, increasing levels of a chemical called serotonin that plays a role in moods. Even so, Lexapro and Zoloft are not necessarily interchangeable as their indications for use differ along with their side effects. The decision as to which is better is based not only on these factors but also on your individual response to treatment. Luis Alvarez / Getty Images What They Treat While Lexapro and Zoloft have similar mechanisms of action, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has licensed each based on how effective and safe they are in treating specific mental disorders. The decision is based on clinical research involving thousands of users. The FDA currently approves Lexapro and Zoloft for the following conditions: Lexapro Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and children 12 and olderGeneralized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and children 7 and overZoloftMajor depressive disorderObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for adults and children 6 and overPanic disorder (PD)Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Social anxiety disorder (SAD)Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Lexapro and Zoloft have specific limitations in children. Lexapro is approved for use in children 12 and older for MDD and 7 and over for GAD, while Zoloft is approved in children 6 and over for OCD. How They Work Lexapro and Zoloft work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a type of chemical messenger known as a neurotransmitter that activates serotonin receptors in the brain. By doing so, they can elevate moods and treat a variety of mood disorders. SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft work by preventing the reuptake of serotonin, meaning the process by which serotonin is naturally reabsorbed by neurons (nerve
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