Published on 14 February 2022

Anafranil Vs Zoloft: Which Is The Best For You?

Sertraline (Zoloft) anafranil-vs-zoloft
Table of Contents

 

What Is Anafranil?

Anafranil is a tricyclic antidepressant that contains clomipramine-hydrochloride. It is primarily used to treat OCD, and this medication usually helps in falling asleep as well(Eaton, H., 1973).

Generic Name: Clomipramine HCL

Brand name: Anafranil

What Is Zoloft?

Zoloft is a prescription medicine. It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorders.

It belongs to the class of SSRIs class. Zoloft also has a liquid solution. This antidepressant is said to be the best choice if you are pregnant. Zoloft causes less sleepiness than any other antidepressant(Quallich, G.J., 2005).

Generic name: Sertraline

Brand name: Zoloft

The Differences:

  • Anafranil is primarily used to treat OCD, whereas Zoloft is used to treat Depression, Panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Anafranil vs Zoloft. Well Anafranil and Zoloft are antidepressants, but Anafranil falls under the category of Tricyclic antidepressants, whereas Zoloft is an SSRI ( selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor)
  • Anafranil does not have a liquid solution, while Zoloft does. 

Case Study:

The aim of this study was to check the efficiency of both; Clomipramine HCL and Sertraline. One group of patients was given Anafranil, while one group was given Zoloft. Efficiency was assessed after every week. Dry mouth, anxiety, constipation, nausea, and tiredness were the most common side effects for clomipramine, while diarrhea and nausea were the most common side effects for Sertraline. Sertraline was found to be more efficacious than clomipramine in this study's intent-to-treat analysis

Side Effects Of Anafranil:

  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Tiredness
  • Sleep problems ( rare)

Side Effects Of Zoloft:

  • Nervousness
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Weight loss
  • Stomach pain

Dosage:

Anafranil Zoloft
Usually, 25 mg daily; can gradually increase. Usually, 50 mg daily; can gradually increase 25 mg if needed.

 

Consumption of Anafranil:

As instructed by your doctor, take this medication by mouth with or without food. Clomipramine can be begun at a low dose, taken in multiple doses throughout the day with meals, and gradually increased as your body becomes used to it to reduce side effects like stomach distress. After you've found the dose that works best for you, you can take the total dose once a day, usually at bedtime, to avoid daytime sleepiness or as advised by your doctor (Frank, P., 1977).

Consumption Of Zoloft:

Take this medication by mouth once a day, in the morning or evening, as instructed by your doctor. This drug can be taken with or without food in tablet or liquid form. Taking the capsules with food is the most common method of administration. Completely swallow the capsules. The pills should not be crushed or chewed (Carroll, B.T., 2000). 

For The Liquid Form:

This medication's liquid form must be combined with another liquid before usage. Carefully measure the dose using the medicine dropper provided just before taking.

Precautions Of Anafranil:

  • Consult your doctor if you are/have been allergic to any medications.
  • This drug passes on to breast milk. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
  • It is advised not to consume this medication right before driving, as it can blur your vision or make you feel lightheaded.
  • When used in youngsters who participate in active sports, caution is suggested because it may raise the risk of heart issues.
  • It is suggested that this drug should only be taken during pregnancy if necessary. Clomipramine may cause withdrawal symptoms or side effects in newborns exposed to it during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the dangers and advantages. If you observe jitteriness, trembling, feeding issues, rapid breathing, or seizures in your newborn, it is advised to call your doctor straight away.

Precautions Of Zoloft:

  • Usually, Sertraline has been linked to a heart rhythm disorder (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can cause fast/irregular heartbeat and other immediate medical intervention symptoms.
  • Consult your doctor if you are/have been allergic to any medications.
  • This medication's liquid form contains alcohol. If you have diabetes, alcoholism, or liver problems, it is suggested to proceed with caution.
  • This drug passes on to breast milk. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Effectiveness:

Both of these medications are FDA-approved.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is adequately treated with Anafranil (clomipramine), although it has potentially unpleasant adverse effects. It improves your mood and allows you to unwind. Although Zoloft (Sertraline) is effective in treating depression and anxiety, it can interact with various medications. Both of these medications are proven to be effective; Side effects may vary from person to person. In some cases, Anafranil has adverse side effects (Kim, S.C. and Seo, K.K., 1998).