There are countless drugs that physicians prescribe for people suffering from clinical depression. The drug groups include MAOIs, SSRIs, SSNRIs, TCAs etc—while these drug groups may sound too complicated… their functions are easy. Common drugs that are prescribed for depressed patients nowadays are Zoloft (Sertraline) and Pristiq (Venlafaxine).

What We Need To Know About Zoloft vs. Pristiq

Zoloft, an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), is a drug with the generic name Sertraline and is primarily used to treat depression. There are also other conditions which this drug can treat like OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and panic disorder. Zoloft works by keeping the Serotonin levels in our brain adequate to keep our moods stable.

On the other hand, Pristiq is an SSNRI and under the generic Desvenlafaxine. As an SSNRI, it is used to treat depression and may also work in other conditions not listed here. Unlike Zoloft, Pristiq also keeps the levels of Serotonin, plus Norepinephrine in our brain chemically balanced to lessen signs and symptoms of depression.

Contraindications When Taking Zoloft vs. Pristiq

Before you can be prescribed with Zoloft, you have to be cleared from the following conditions:

-          Bipolar disorder history, family or personal;

-          Heart and liver disorders;

-          Diabetes Mellitus;

-          Those receiving ECT;

-          Suicidal attempts; and

-          Diabetes Mellitus.

As for Pristiq, the following conditions are not ideal:

-          Kidney, liver and heart diseases;

-          Manic and Depressed moods; and

-          Thoughts of suicide.

How To Take Zoloft vs. Pristiq

Zoloft and Pristiq should be taken in the exact dose prescribed by your physician. This drug may be taken with or without food and with a full glass of water. This drug must be taken in regular intervals to avoid overdose and underdose from the medication. Never stop taking these drugs without getting the go-signal from your physician.

Side Effects of Taking Zoloft vs. Pristiq

The following side effects may be expected when taking Zoloft:

-          Allergic reactions;

-          Black and tarry stool;

-          Detachment from reality;

-          Thoughts of suicide;

-          Heartbeat irregularities;

-          Seizures and convulsions;

-          Abnormal bleeding and bruising; and

-          General feeling of tiredness and weakness.

In taking Pristiq, you have to be vigilant for the following side effects:

-          Breathing difficulties, rashes, itchiness and other signs of an allergic reaction;

-          Detachment from reality, hallucinations;

-          Hypertension;

-          Seizures;

-          Sexual dysfunction;

-          Manic episodes;

-          Abnormal bleeding/ bruising;

-          Seizures and convulsions; and

-          Vomiting.

Special Precautions When Taking Zoloft vs. Pristiq

There are drugs which can meddle with how Zoloft takes effect in our brain, some of them are:

-          MAOIs;

-          Anti-cancer drugs;

-          Amphetamines/ Dexamphetamines;

-          Aspirin and NSAIDs;

-          Sleep inducing drugs;

-          Drugs for migraine;

-          Blood thinning agents; and

-          Appetite suppressants.

Meanwhile, for the drugs that affect how one takes Pristiq, here are some:

-          Alcoholic beverages;

-          Aspirin and NSAIDs;

-          Diet medications;

-          Migraine drugs;

-          Heart medications;

-          MAOIs;

-          Blood clot preventing drugs; and

-          Amphetamine.

These are just some of the drugs and there are a lot more drugs which affects how Zoloft and Pristiq works. Make sure you consult your physician before taking any drugs during Zoloft or Pristiq therapy.

 

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