Sertraline vs Plan B: side-by-side comparison
Sertraline (Anti-Depressants) and Plan B (Hormones and Birth Control) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Sertraline | Plan B |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Sertraline | Levonorgestrel |
| Manufacturer | Various generics | Foundation Consumer Healthcare |
| Class | Anti-Depressants | Hormones and Birth Control |
| Strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 1.5mg |
| Forms | tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Sertraline and Plan B are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Sertraline belongs to Anti-Depressants while Plan B belongs to Hormones and Birth Control. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Sertraline: Sertraline selectively blocks the serotonin transporter on the presynaptic neuron, preventing reuptake of serotonin from the synaptic cleft. Plan B: Plan B's primary mechanism is delaying or preventing ovulation when taken before the LH surge.
When Sertraline is preferred
Generic sertraline shares the indications of the originator: major depressive disorder, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, all in adults.
When Plan B is preferred
Plan B is indicated for emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse or known/suspected contraceptive failure, in women of reproductive age.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sertraline or Plan B better? ▾
Sertraline and Plan B are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Sertraline to Plan B? ▾
Switching between Sertraline and Plan B is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Sertraline and Plan B have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Sertraline comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.