Paxil vs. Zoloft — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 16, 2024
Paxil (paroxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both antidepressants in the SSRI class, but Paxil is often used for anxiety disorders while Zoloft is frequently prescribed for depression and PTSD.
Difference Between Paxil and Zoloft
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Paxil (paroxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Zoloft, on the other hand, is frequently prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Both medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. However, they have different side effect profiles. Paxil is more likely to cause weight gain and sexual dysfunction, while Zoloft can cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea.
Paxil generally has a shorter half-life than Zoloft, which means it leaves the body more quickly. This can lead to more pronounced withdrawal symptoms if the medication is stopped abruptly. Zoloft's longer half-life can make discontinuation easier to manage.
Choosing between Paxil and Zoloft often depends on the specific symptoms and conditions being treated, as well as how an individual responds to the medication. Doctors consider factors such as side effects, the patient's medical history, and other medications being taken.
Comparison Chart
Drug Class
SSRI
SSRI
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Common Uses
Anxiety disorders, depression
Depression, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders
Side Effects
Weight gain, sexual dysfunction
Nausea, diarrhea, insomnia
Half-life
Shorter, about 21 hours
Longer, about 26 hours
Withdrawal Symptoms
More pronounced due to shorter half-life
Less pronounced, longer half-life
FDA Approval
1992
1991
Brand Name
Paxil
Zoloft
Compare with Definitions
Paxil
Medication for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
He was prescribed Paxil for his GAD.
Zoloft
Medication for PTSD.
Her doctor prescribed Zoloft for her PTSD symptoms.
Paxil
Treatment option for panic disorder.
Paxil is effective in reducing panic attacks.
Zoloft
An SSRI used to treat depression and anxiety.
Zoloft was effective in managing his depression.
Paxil
SSRI known to cause weight gain in some patients.
She experienced weight gain while taking Paxil.
Zoloft
Antidepressant with a longer half-life.
Zoloft's longer half-life can ease withdrawal.
Paxil
Antidepressant with a shorter half-life.
Patients need to taper off Paxil gradually to avoid withdrawal.
Zoloft
Treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Zoloft helped reduce his OCD symptoms.
Paxil
An SSRI used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Paxil helped alleviate her social anxiety symptoms.
Zoloft
SSRI associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
He experienced nausea when he started Zoloft.
Paxil
A selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Paxil)
Zoloft
A selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Zoloft)
Common Curiosities
What is Zoloft?
Zoloft is an SSRI antidepressant used to treat depression, PTSD, OCD, and anxiety disorders.
What are common side effects of Zoloft?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia.
Which has a longer half-life, Paxil or Zoloft?
Zoloft has a longer half-life than Paxil.
Can Paxil cause withdrawal symptoms?
Yes, due to its shorter half-life, Paxil can cause more pronounced withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.
Does Paxil treat panic disorder?
Yes, Paxil is effective in treating panic disorder.
Is Zoloft used for PTSD?
Yes, Zoloft is commonly prescribed for PTSD.
What is Paxil?
Paxil is an SSRI antidepressant used to treat anxiety disorders and depression.
How do Paxil and Zoloft work?
Both increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
What are common side effects of Paxil?
Common side effects include weight gain and sexual dysfunction.
Can Zoloft cause gastrointestinal issues?
Yes, Zoloft can cause nausea and diarrhea.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
