What is the Difference Between Celexa and Lexapro?

Both Celexa and Lexapro belong to the class of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and are used to treat depression. However, there are some key differences between them:

1. Chemical composition: Celexa is a branded version of citalopram, which is a mixture of two stereo-isomers: R-citalopram and S-citalopram. Lexapro, on the other hand, is a branded version of escitalopram, which contains only one isomer, the S-enantiomer.
2. Form: Celexa is only available in tablet form, while Lexapro is available in both tablet and liquid form.
3. Dosage: The equivalent dose of Lexapro is approximately half of that of Celexa, which means the dosing range of Lexapro is 10-20 mg/day, and the dosing range for Celexa is 20-40 mg/day.
4. Approval: Celexa was FDA approved in 1998, and Lexapro was FDA approved in 2002.
5. Conditions treated: Both Celexa and Lexapro can be used off-label to treat other conditions, but only Lexapro is FDA approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder.

Despite these differences, both medications have many similarities, such as their mechanism of action, side effects, withdrawal symptoms, and being branded drugs. Some common side effects of both Celexa and Lexapro include headache, nausea, vomiting, increased sweating, and dry mouth.

Comparative Table: Celexa vs Lexapro

Celexa and Lexapro are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. They have some similarities and differences, which are outlined in the table below:

Both drugs work by preventing the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which helps improve mood. While they have many similarities, Lexapro is approved to treat additional conditions such as social anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, PTSD, and PMDD. Celexa has two stereoisomers (R-citalopram and S-citalopram), while Lexapro has only one (S-citalopram). This difference in stereoisomers makes Lexapro more tolerable to the body and potentially more effective.