Fluoxetine HCl vs. Sertraline
Compare Fluoxetine HCl and Sertraline: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Fluoxetine HCl
Fluoxetine HCL
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
RxDrug B
Sertraline
Sertraline
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Fluoxetine HCl | Sertraline |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) | SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | Yes |
| Typical Cost | $4-$25/month | $4–$25/month |
Fluoxetine HCl Overview
FLUOXETINE HCL (brand name: Fluoxetine HCL) is a SSRIs. Fluoxetine is indicated for the treatment of: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.1)] . Acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.2)] . Acute and…
Full Fluoxetine HCl guide →Sertraline Overview
Sertraline (brand name: Sertraline) is a medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat various mental health conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Sertraline works by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance...
Full Sertraline guide →How Each Drug Works
Sertraline
Sertraline potentiates serotonergic activity in the central nervous system through inhibition of neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT).
Approved Uses (Indications)
Fluoxetine HCl
Fluoxetine is indicated for the treatment of: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute and maintenance treatment of binge-eating and vomiting behaviors in patients with moderate to severe Bulimia Nervosa [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute treatment of Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Fluoxetine and Olanzapine in Combination is indicated for the tr…
Sertraline
Sertraline hydrochloride tablets are indicated for the treatment of the following [See Clinical Studies ] : Major depressive disorder (MDD) Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Panic disorder (PD) Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Social anxiety disorder (SAD) Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Sertraline hydrochloride tablet is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of : Major depressive disorder (MDD) Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Panic disorder (PD) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Social anxiety disord…
Side Effects
Fluoxetine HCl
Sertraline
Cost Comparison
Fluoxetine HCl
$4-$25/month
As a widely available generic, Fluoxetine HCl is very affordable. Patients can often find significant savings using discount cards or by checking prices at different pharmacies.
Sertraline
$4–$25/month
Generic available
As a widely available generic, Sertraline is very affordable. Patients can often find it for under $10 per month using discount cards or pharmacy programs.
Drug Interaction: Moderate
Combining sertraline and fluoxetine, both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), significantly increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Patients may experience symptoms such as agitation, confusion, sweating, tremor, and hyperreflexia, which can range from mild to life-threatening.
Mechanism: Both sertraline and fluoxetine increase synaptic serotonin concentrations by inhibiting serotonin reuptake in the central nervous system. When used concurrently, their additive serotonergic effects can lead to excessive stimulation of serotonin receptors.
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Medical Disclaimer
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