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Can Zoloft & Lexapro Be Taken Together?

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). They should not be used together unless under the close supervision of a trained physician.

  1. Considerations

    • According to DIOne, a medication management used by hospitals, there is a moderate drug-drug interaction.

    Warnings

    • Patients taking Lexapro and Zoloft together should be monitored for potential excessive or prolonged central nervous system and respiratory depression.

    Increase in Side Effects

    • An increase in side effects can be expected, since both work on the levels of serotonin in the body.

    Side Effects to Expect

    • Patients may experience increased dizziness, decreased mental alertness, decreased motor function, headache, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset and decreased libido, to name a few.

    FDA Alert

    • The FDA recently added a black box warning to all SSRIs. Manufacturers of SSRIs are now required to label their medications with a a notice warning patients of the possibility of an increase in suicidal thinking and behavior, and the risk for developing Serotonin Syndrome.

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