Cymbalta vs Sertraline: side-by-side comparison
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) and Sertraline (Sertraline) both belong to the Antidépresseurs class. They share clinical context but use different active ingredients. The choice between them depends on mechanism nuances, side-effect profile and individual response.
| Property | Cymbalta | Sertraline |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Duloxetine | Sertraline |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Various generics |
| Class | Antidépresseurs | Antidépresseurs |
| Strengths | 20mg, 30mg, 60mg | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg |
| Forms | capsule | tablet |
What's the same
Cymbalta and Sertraline both belong to the Antidépresseurs class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Duloxetine vs Sertraline — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Duloxetine vs Sertraline), strengths (20mg, 30mg, 60mg vs 25mg, 50mg, 100mg), forms (capsule vs tablet), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
Cymbalta: Cymbalta inhibe la recapture synaptique de la sérotonine et de la noradrénaline. Sertraline: La sertraline bloque sélectivement le transporteur de la sérotonine du neurone présynaptique, empêchant la recapture de la sérotonine depuis la fente synaptique.
When Cymbalta is preferred
Cymbalta est autorisé dans la dépression caractérisée, le trouble anxieux généralisé, les douleurs neuropathiques périphériques diabétiques, la fibromyalgie et les douleurs musculosquelettiques chroniques.
When Sertraline is preferred
La sertraline générique partage les indications du produit d'origine : dépression caractérisée, trouble panique, TOC, état de stress post-traumatique, anxiété sociale et trouble dysphorique prémenstruel, chez l'adulte.
Questions fréquentes
Is Cymbalta or Sertraline better? ▾
There is no single answer. Cymbalta and Sertraline both belong to the Antidépresseurs class but differ in mechanism nuances, half-life and side-effect profile. Preference depends on the patient, the prescriber and prior response to other therapies.
Can I switch from Cymbalta to Sertraline? ▾
Switching within the Antidépresseurs class is done under supervision, typically using equivalent doses and a follow-up period to confirm response and tolerance. It is not a self-directed decision.
Do Cymbalta and Sertraline have the same side effects? ▾
They share many of the Antidépresseurs class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
More Cymbalta comparisons
Les informations publiées sur ce site sont fournies à titre documentaire et pédagogique. Elles ne remplacent pas l'avis d'un professionnel de santé qualifié.