Lexapro belongs to a newer class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Serotonin, a chemical secreted throughout the brain, contributes to a general sense of well being and regulates energy levels, sleep and appetite. SSRIs treat depressive symptoms by blocking reabsorption of serotonin and increasing its signaling at areas of communication between brain cells called "synapses." According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), drugs with mechanisms of action similar to Lexapro differ in their abilities at managing the various anxiety disorders that accompany depression.
Zoloft
Zoloft, generic name sertraline, is a prescription medication introduced by Pfizer in the early 1990s. It is FDA-approved for long-term use in virtually every mood disorder---with the exception of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)---including major unipolar depression, social anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Zoloft shares many of the same side-effects as Lexapro. These include headache, nausea or stomach unrest, weight gain and sexual problems.
Paxil
Paxil, generic name paroxetine, was introduced by GlaxoSmithKline in the early 1990s and is also FDA-approved for short- or long-term use in every category of affective disorder. Like Lexapro and in contrast to Zoloft, the medication effectively manages the symptoms linked with GAD including constant worrying and debilitating anxiety. Paxil shares many of the complications linked with SSRI use, but does not appear to cause significant weight gain. The drug carries a warning for increasing suicidal thoughts in children and young adults during the early stages of depression therapy.
Effexor
Effexor, generic name venlafaxine, was first introduced by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in the mid 1990s. It is FDA-approved for the short- or long-term treatment of major depression, social and generalized anxiety, and panic disorder but not for the treatment of PTSD or obsessive-compulsions. Unlike classic SSRIs, the drug also affects the recycling and activity of noradrenaline. Indications for panic disorder occur when individuals feel regular surges of overwhelming fear that give way to the impression that they might suffer injury or die. Effexor possesses the same side-effect profile of other SSRIs such as Lexapro, but can raise blood pressure which requires monitoring for hypertension.
