Being aware of even the slightest difference between two things can actually help save a life. This is very true especially if we are dealing with drugs. Drugs are very useful in treating diseases and removing different kinds of discomfort in our body. These medications are usually in the form of tablets, capsules, syrups, suspensions, injections, intravenous infusions and a lot more. Giving the exact prescribed dose to a patient is very important because even an overdose of only a single milligram can already cause a life threatening reaction to a person. This is also the reason why we must pay attention to the smallest details regarding these drugs including their small differences with other medications. For us to know more of this importance, let us try and identify what is the difference between Zoloft and Prozac.
Zoloft and Prozac are both classified as antidepressant medications under the same category of SSRI or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. Belonging to the same category would usually mean that both Zoloft (Sertraline) and Prozac (Flouxetine) are very similar; however, there are still some significant differences between the two including their specific chemical composition.
Both of these drugs should be taken exactly just like what is ordered by the physician. These drugs should also be taken at the same time every day and are expected to show its therapeutic effects after 3 to 4 weeks. Both of them should also be kept on room temperature, which is away from moisture and direct heat. As for the tablet form of these drugs, Zoloft should be taken with water. It doesn’t matter much if it is taken with or without any food as long as it is taken on the prescribed schedule. Prozac, on the other hand, should never be crushed or chewed. Its coating is designed for its extended-release, which is how Prozac should be absorbed by the body. In case of missed doses, both of these SSRIs should be taken right away as soon as remember. However, if it is already time for the next dose, it is safer just to leave the missed dose as it is. Taking in an extra tablet for missed doses is a definite NO-NO for anti depressant medications.
Zoloft and Prozac should never be taken with alcohol or any sleep medications. These SSRI drugs are known to have relaxing side effects that can cause drowsiness or sleepiness. Adverse effects of these drugs are very similar from each other including hives or skin rashes, facial swelling and difficulty of breathing. Other common or similar side effects include mood changes, irritability, aggressiveness, hyperactivity and suicidal thoughts or ideation. Nevertheless, Prozac is known to have more side effects than Zoloft namely red blister formations in the skin, rhinorrhea or runny nose, weight changes, diaphoresis or increased sweating and dry mouth.
In summary, Zoloft and Prozac are generally very similar to each other. Their known differences are only on their side effects and their drug form. Nonetheless, becoming meticulous in administering these drugs is still considered necessary in order to avoid the mentioned adverse reactions.