Are you considering taking medication for your depression? If so, you may be wondering if Paxil or Zoloft is the better choice for you. Both of these medications are effective in treating depression, but they work in different ways and have different side effects. Here we will compare and contrast Paxil and Zoloft to help you decide which one is right for you.
What is Paxil?
- Paxil is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Paxil is used to treat the major depressive disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Paxil works by increasing the level of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. Paxil comes as a tablet, an extended-release tablet, and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth.
- Paxil is usually taken one time per day with or without food. You may need to take Paxil for several weeks or longer before you begin to feel better. Do not stop taking Paxil suddenly without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually.
- Paxil may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Paxil should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep Paxil in a safe place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away Paxil is against the law.
What is Zoloft?
- Zoloft (sertraline) is a prescription medication used to treat depression, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Zoloft belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that helps to regulate mood.
- Zoloft is taken orally, usually once daily. Zoloft may cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and insomnia. Zoloft may also interact with other medications. Zoloft should not be taken if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the past 14 days.
- Zoloft should also not be taken if you are taking antipsychotics or anticoagulants. Zoloft may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or bipolar disorder. Zoloft can also cause withdrawal symptoms if it is suddenly stopped.
Difference Between Paxil and Zoloft
Paxil and Zoloft are two of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. They belong to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. Both Paxil and Zoloft are effective in treating depression, but they have some important differences. Paxil is more likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects than Zoloft.
Zoloft is also more likely to cause diarrhea than Paxil. Both Paxil and Zoloft can cause nausea, headache, and insomnia. Paxil is available in both tablet and liquid form, while Zoloft is only available as a tablet. The decision about which medication to choose depends on individual preferences and side effect tolerance.
Conclusion
Paxil and Zoloft are two of the most common antidepressants on the market. They both belong to a class of drugs called SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, they work in different ways and can have different side effects. If you’re considering taking one of these medications, it’s important to understand the differences between them so that you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.
