Celexa vs. Lexapro: Know the Difference

By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 22, 2024

Celexa (citalopram) and Lexapro (escitalopram) are both antidepressants used to treat depression, with Lexapro being a more refined version of Celexa.

Celexa vs. Lexapro

Key Differences

Celexa, known generically as citalopram, is an antidepressant medication used primarily to treat depression. Lexapro, on the other hand, is the brand name for escitalopram, which is also used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Both belong to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Jan 22, 2024

The primary difference between Celexa and Lexapro lies in their chemical composition. Celexa contains both the right-handed and left-handed forms of the citalopram molecule, while Lexapro contains only the more active left-handed form. This makes Lexapro potentially more effective with fewer side effects.

Jan 22, 2024

In terms of effectiveness, both Celexa and Lexapro are well-regarded in the treatment of depression. However, some clinical studies suggest that Lexapro may be more effective in treating severe depression compared to Celexa, which is often preferred for milder cases.

Jan 22, 2024

Side effects of Celexa and Lexapro are similar, including nausea, sleep disturbances, and sexual dysfunction, but Lexapro is often reported to have a slightly lower incidence of these side effects due to its more selective formulation.

Jan 22, 2024

The decision between Celexa and Lexapro often depends on individual patient needs and responses. While Celexa is a cost-effective option for many, Lexapro's refined formulation may be more suitable for patients who experience side effects with other SSRIs.

Jan 22, 2024

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Comparison Chart

Chemical Form

Contains both right-handed and left-handed forms of citalopram

Contains only the more active left-handed form of citalopram

Jan 22, 2024

Indications

Primarily for depression

Depression and generalized anxiety disorder

Jan 22, 2024

Effectiveness

Preferred for milder depression cases

Potentially more effective for severe depression

Jan 22, 2024

Side Effects

Nausea, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction

Slightly lower incidence of similar side effects

Jan 22, 2024

Cost

Generally more cost-effective

May be more expensive due to refined formulation

Jan 22, 2024

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Celexa and Lexapro Definitions

Celexa

Celexa, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), increases serotonin levels in the brain.

Celexa was prescribed to elevate mood by increasing serotonin levels.

Jan 11, 2024

Lexapro

Lexapro works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

Lexapro helped John by boosting his serotonin levels, improving his mood.

Jan 11, 2024

Celexa

Celexa is known for its effectiveness in treating depression with minimal side effects.

Kevin chose Celexa for its balance of effectiveness and tolerability.

Jan 11, 2024

Lexapro

Lexapro is effective in treating severe depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

Lexapro was effective in managing Maria's severe depression and generalized anxiety.

Jan 11, 2024

Celexa

Celexa is an antidepressant medication used to treat depression.

After consulting her doctor, Jane started taking Celexa to help manage her depression.

Jan 11, 2024

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Lexapro

Lexapro, a refined form of Celexa, is known for its efficacy and minimal side effects.

Due to its fewer side effects, Lexapro was chosen over other antidepressants.

Jan 11, 2024

Celexa

Celexa is used to improve mood and feelings of well-being.

Since taking Celexa, Tom has noticed a significant improvement in his mood.

Jan 11, 2024

Lexapro

Lexapro is an antidepressant medication for treating depression and anxiety.

Emily was prescribed Lexapro to help with her anxiety and depression.

Jan 11, 2024

Celexa

Celexa can be used to treat anxiety disorders.

Celexa was effective in reducing Lisa's anxiety symptoms.

Jan 11, 2024

Lexapro

Lexapro is often prescribed when other antidepressants cause significant side effects.

After experiencing side effects with other medications, Alex switched to Lexapro.

Jan 11, 2024

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Are Lexapro's side effects different from Celexa?

They are similar, but Lexapro generally has fewer side effects.

Jan 22, 2024

What is Lexapro used for?

Lexapro is used for treating depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

Jan 22, 2024

How does Lexapro work?

Lexapro increases serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood.

Jan 22, 2024

Can Celexa cause side effects?

Yes, common side effects include nausea and sleep disturbances.

Jan 22, 2024

Can Lexapro treat panic attacks?

Yes, it's effective in treating anxiety-related conditions like panic attacks.

Jan 22, 2024

Is Lexapro a strong antidepressant?

Yes, it's considered effective, especially for severe cases.

Jan 22, 2024

Are Celexa and Lexapro the same?

No, they are different; Lexapro is a more refined version of Celexa.

Jan 22, 2024

Is Lexapro more effective than Celexa?

Lexapro may be more effective, especially for severe depression.

Jan 22, 2024

What is Celexa used for?

Celexa is primarily used to treat depression.

Jan 22, 2024

Is alcohol safe with Celexa?

Alcohol should generally be avoided while taking Celexa.

Jan 22, 2024

Can Celexa be stopped abruptly?

No, it should be tapered off under medical supervision.

Jan 22, 2024

Is Celexa cheaper than Lexapro?

Generally, Celexa is more cost-effective than Lexapro.

Jan 22, 2024

How is Lexapro different from other SSRIs?

Its refined formulation makes it potentially more effective with fewer side effects.

Jan 22, 2024

Can Celexa treat anxiety?

Yes, it can be used to treat anxiety disorders.

Jan 22, 2024

How long does it take for Celexa to work?

It can take several weeks to notice the full effects of Celexa.

Jan 22, 2024

Does Lexapro cause weight gain?

Weight gain can be a side effect, but it varies among individuals.

Jan 22, 2024

Does Celexa affect sleep?

It can cause sleep disturbances in some people.

Jan 22, 2024

Does Lexapro interact with other medications?

Yes, it can interact with certain medications, so it's important to consult a doctor.

Jan 22, 2024

Can Celexa be used in children?

It's generally not recommended for children.

Jan 22, 2024

Can pregnant women take Lexapro?

Lexapro should be used in pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Jan 22, 2024

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About Author

Written by

Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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