Drug Comparison

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride vs. Sertraline Hydrochloride

Compare Fluoxetine Hydrochloride and Sertraline Hydrochloride: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.

Quick Comparison

CategoryFluoxetine HydrochlorideSertraline Hydrochloride
Drug ClassSSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$4–$25/month$10–$50/month

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Overview

Fluoxetine is an antidepressant medication used to help improve mood and reduce symptoms in conditions like major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder. It works by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance in the brain called serotonin.

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Sertraline Hydrochloride Overview

Sertraline hydrochloride is an antidepressant medication belonging to a group called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It helps improve mood and reduce symptoms by affecting a natural substance in the brain called serotonin. This medication is used to treat various conditions like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxie...

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How Each Drug Works

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride

Although the exact mechanism of fluoxetine is unknown, it is presumed to be linked to its inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin.

Sertraline Hydrochloride

Sertraline potentiates serotonergic activity in the central nervous system through inhibition of neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT).

Approved Uses (Indications)

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride

Fluoxetine capsules are 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 capsules and Ol…

Sertraline Hydrochloride

Sertraline hydrochloride oral solution is 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 oral solution is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of :
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Panic disorder (PD)
  • Posttraumatic stress disorde…

Side Effects

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride

Sertraline Hydrochloride

Cost Comparison

Fluoxetine Hydrochloride

$4–$25/month

Fluoxetine is available as an affordable generic. Using discount cards like GoodRx can significantly reduce the cash price, often to under $10 per month.

Sertraline Hydrochloride

$10–$50/month

Sertraline is widely available as an affordable generic. Patients can often find significant savings using discount cards or pharmacy loyalty programs.

Compare prices for Fluoxetine Hydrochloride and Sertraline Hydrochloride

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.