Difference between Xanax and Zoloft
Countless people all over the world rely on either Xanax or Zoloft to help them deal with issues related to depression. While both medications are quite similar to each other, they are by no means interchangeable, and taking one when you should be taking the other can produce disastrous results. Here is a quick guide on the key differences between each.
Definition
The generic name of Xanax is alprazolam, and it belongs to the category of drugs called benzodiazepines. These medications affect certain chemicals in the brain that play a role in triggering anxiety. Zoloft is sold under the generic namesertraline, and it belongs to the antidepressant category of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Zoloft affects the same chemicals in the brain that Xanax does, particularly those that play a role in depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Purpose
Xanax is commonly prescribed as a treatment for a wide range of conditions including anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and depression related anxiety. Zoloft is used in the treatment of depression as well, and it is also prescribed to patients suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Risk Factors
Under no circumstances should you take Xanax if you are allergic to similar medications such as those in the benzodiazepine group. Among the drugs in this category are chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, diazepam, lorazepam, and oxazepam. In addition, you should not take Xanax if you are pregnant, as doing so can cause birth defects in your baby. You should also avoid Xanax if you have had trouble breathing, glaucoma, kidney or liver conditions, a history of depression, suicidal tendencies, and/or drug or alcohol addiction. The use of Zoloft should be avoided if you are already taking pimozide or some type of MAO inhibitor. Drugs in this category are isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine, phenelzine, rasagiline, and selegiline. Taking Zoloft when you are under these medications may result in fatal reactions. You should also ask your doctor about taking Zoloft if you have liver or kidney issues, if you have suffered from seizures and/or epilepsy in the past, if you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, or if you have a history of drug abuse and/or suicidal tendencies. You should also consult with your doctor if you experience suicidal thoughts, if you get pregnant, or if you plan to breastfeed while taking Zoloft.
Summary
Xanax
- Generic name is alprazolam
- Belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines
- Affects chemicals in the brain
- Used in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, and depression
- May cause birth defects in unborn babies
- Potential risks when taken with alcohol
- May be habit-forming
Zoloft
- Generic name is sertraline
- Belongs to a group of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs
- Affects chemicals in the brain
- Used in the treatment of depression and obsessive-compulsive, panic anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders
- May cause serious and fatal side effects when taken with certain medicines
