{"id":4565,"date":"2019-06-25T16:17:23","date_gmt":"2019-06-25T20:17:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=4565"},"modified":"2021-05-07T18:37:22","modified_gmt":"2021-05-07T22:37:22","slug":"prozac-vs-xanax","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/prozac-vs-xanax\/","title":{"rendered":"Prozac vs. Xanax: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you"},"content":{"rendered":"

Drug overview & main differences<\/a> | Conditions treated<\/a> | Efficacy<\/a> | Insurance coverage and cost comparison<\/a> | Side effects<\/a> | Drug interactions<\/a> | Warnings<\/a> | FAQ<\/a><\/p>\n

If you experience depression, anxiety, or other conditions that affect your mental health, you are among millions in the United States. Over <\/span>16 million American adults<\/span><\/a> have major depressive disorder (MDD)<\/a>, and almost 7 million adults experience generalized anxiety disorder<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Prozac (fluoxetine) and Xanax (alprazolam) are two popular medications prescribed for mental health conditions. Both medicines are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Medication use with Prozac or Xanax is often employed along with psychotherapy with a psychologist or psychiatrist.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Prozac and Xanax?<\/h2>\n

Prozac<\/span><\/a> (fluoxetine<\/a>) is part of a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRI medications work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. This helps improve symptoms of <\/span>depression<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Prozac is available in both brand and generic formulations. Prozac is available in tablet and capsule form, as well as an oral solution. Although the dosage varies, a typical dose is 20 mg once a day. Prozac can be used in adults for all of the indications listed in the chart below. Prozac can be used in children over 8 years old for depression or over 7 years old for OCD.<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax<\/span><\/a> (alprazolam<\/a>) is in the benzodiazepine class of drugs and works in the CNS (central nervous system). Benzodiazepines work by increasing activity at receptors for a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), resulting in a relaxing and calming effect. Because of the potential for abuse and\/or psychological or physical dependence, Xanax is a controlled substance and is classified as a <\/span>Schedule IV drug<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax is available in both brand and generic form. Xanax is available in immediate-release tablets or extended-release tablets and as an oral concentrate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between Prozac and Xanax<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nProzac<\/b><\/td>\nXanax<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/span><\/td>\nBenzodiazepine\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nFluoxetine\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nAlprazolam\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nTablet, capsule, oral solution, in combination with <\/span>olanzapine<\/span><\/a> as <\/span>Symbyax<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nImmediate-release tablet (Xanax), extended-release tablet (Xanax XR), oral concentrate<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\nExample: 20 mg once daily (dosage varies)<\/span><\/td>\nExample: 0.5 mg taken three times daily as needed for anxiety (dosage varies)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults; c<\/span>hildren & adolescents for depression (over 8 years old) or OCD (over 7 years old)<\/span><\/td>\nAdults\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Conditions treated by Prozac and Xanax<\/h2>\n

Prozac is indicated to treat major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/a> in children, adolescents, and adults. Prozac can also be used to treat bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and panic disorder. Prozac is not approved for use in children under 7 years old.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Note: Symbyax is a combination drug containing the ingredient in Prozac, fluoxetine, along with another medication called olanzapine. Symbyax is used to treat depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder and is also used for treatment-resistant depression.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax is indicated for the short-term relief of <\/span>anxiety symptoms<\/span><\/a> and the short-term relief of anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. Xanax is also indicated for the treatment of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia. (Xanax XR is also indicated for panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.)<\/span><\/p>\n

Sometimes, these drugs may be prescribed off-label<\/a> for other uses than what they are indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/strong><\/td>\nProzac<\/strong><\/td>\nXanax<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Major depressive disorder (MDD)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nOff-label<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bulimia nervosa<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Panic disorder<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nOff-label<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
In combination with olanzapine (as Symbyax) to treat depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder OR for treatment-resistant depression<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Management of anxiety disorders<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety (with or without depressive symptoms)<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is Prozac or Xanax more effective?<\/h2>\n

It is difficult to compare the two drugs. Studies do not compare the two drugs directly. Prozac is commonly used for depression and is used for a longer time, while Xanax is intended to be a short-term treatment for anxiety (although many people take Xanax long-term under their doctor\u2019s supervision). Some patients <\/span>take both an SSRI and a benzodiazepine<\/span><\/a> to help with anxiety and depression. Although ironically, Prozac and Xanax <\/span>interact<\/span><\/a> with each other, so a dosage adjustment and close monitoring may be necessary.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Your healthcare provider can determine which drug will be better for you, based on your symptoms, medical condition(s), and history, and any medications you take that can interact with Prozac or Xanax.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of Prozac vs. Xanax<\/h2>\n

Most insurance and Medicare prescription plans cover Prozac or Xanax\u2014choosing the generic form will result in significant cost savings. The brand-name products have a much higher copay or may not be covered at all.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The out-of-pocket cost for generic Prozac can run $25 to $50 for 30, 20 mg generic capsules. You can save money on <\/span>generic Prozac<\/span><\/a> with a SingleCare card, which can lower the price to $4 at participating pharmacies.<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax is typically covered by private insurance and Medicare prescription plans in the generic form of alprazolam. The brand-name Xanax may not be covered or may have a high copay. A typical prescription of alprazolam would be for 60 tablets of 0.5 mg and costs about $35 out-of-pocket. Using a SingleCare card for <\/span>generic Xanax<\/span><\/a> can bring the price down to as low as $13.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact your insurance plan for up-to-date coverage information on Prozac or Xanax.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nProzac<\/b><\/td>\nXanax<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nYes (generic)<\/span><\/td>\nYes (generic)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nYes (generic)<\/span><\/td>\nYes (generic)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard dosage<\/b><\/td>\n30, 20 mg capsules<\/span><\/td>\n60 tablets of 0.5 mg generic alprazolam<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/b><\/td>\n$0-$20<\/span><\/td>\n$0-$33<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n$4-$20<\/span><\/td>\n$12+<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Get the SingleCare prescription discount card<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Common side effects of Prozac vs. Xanax<\/h2>\n

The most common side effects of Prozac are headache, nausea, drowsiness, insomnia, appetite loss, sexual side effects, and nervousness or anxiety.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax side effects usually increase with higher doses. The most common side effects of Xanax are sedation, dizziness, and weakness. Other side effects may include <\/span>fatigue, lightheadedness, memory problems, confusion, depression, euphoria, suicidal thoughts\/attempt, incoordination, lack of energy, dry mouth, convulsions\/seizures, vertigo, visual problems, slurred speech, sexual problems, headache<\/a>, coma, respiratory depression, weight gain or weight loss, worsening of sleep apnea<\/a> or obstructive pulmonary disease, and gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Each time you fill or refill your Prozac or Xanax prescription, you will receive a medication guide that discusses side effects, warnings, and other important information about your medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is not a full list of adverse effects. Other, serious side effects may occur. Consult your healthcare provider for a complete list of side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nProzac<\/b><\/td>\nXanax<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side effect<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n21%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n12.9-29.2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n21%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n9.6-22%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Constipation\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n10.4-26.2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diarrhea\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n12%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n10.1-20.6%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ejaculation disorder\/sexual dysfunction<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n% not reported<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n7.4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dry mouth\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n14.7%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drowsiness\/sleepiness<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n13%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n41-77%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dizziness\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n9%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n1.8-30%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n16%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n8.9-29.5%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Appetite loss<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n11%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n12.8-27.8%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nervousness\/anxiety<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n13%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n4-19%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Source: DailyMed (<\/span>Prozac<\/span><\/a>), DailyMed (<\/span>Xanax<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Drug interactions of Prozac vs. Xanax<\/h2>\n

Do not use an MAO inhibitor (MAOI, or monoamine oxidase inhibitor) within 14 days of Prozac. The combination may increase the risk of <\/span>serotonin syndrome<\/span><\/a>, a life-threatening medical emergency due to excess serotonin. Triptans\u2014migraine medications, such as Imitrex (sumatriptan), and other antidepressants, such as Elavil or Cymbalta, should not be used in combination with Prozac due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Also, the cough suppressant dextromethorphan, which is found in Robitussin-DM and many other cough and cold products, should be avoided as it can also cause serotonin syndrome when combined with Prozac.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Xanax should not be taken in combination with opioid painkillers due to increased risk of sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose, possibly leading to death. If no other combination is possible, the patient should receive each medication at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest duration and be closely monitored. Benzodiazepines also should not be taken with other <\/span>CNS depressants such as alcohol, antipsychotics, antidepressants, sedating antihistamines, and anticonvulsants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Avoid alcohol when taking Prozac or Xanax.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is not a full list of drug interactions. Consult your healthcare provider for a complete list of drug interactions. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), and vitamins.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug class<\/b><\/td>\nProzac<\/b><\/td>\nXanax<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rasagiline\u00a0<\/span>
\nSelegiline<\/span>
\nTranylcypromine\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		MAOIs<\/span><\/td>\nYes (separate use by at least 14 days)<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Alcohol\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nAlcohol\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rizatriptan\u00a0<\/span>
\nSumatriptan\u00a0<\/span>
\nZolmitriptan\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Triptans\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes (sumatriptan)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
St. John\u2019s Wort<\/span><\/td>\nSupplement<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warfarin\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nAnticoagulant<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Codeine<\/span>
\nHydrocodone\u00a0<\/span>
\nHydromorphone\u00a0<\/span>
\nMethadone\u00a0<\/span>
\nMorphine\u00a0<\/span>
\nOxycodone\u00a0<\/span>
\nTramadol\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Opioid pain relievers<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dextromethorphan (in many cough and cold products)<\/span><\/td>\nCough suppressant\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Azithromycin\u00a0<\/span>
\nClarithromycin\u00a0<\/span>
\nErythromycin\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Macrolide antibiotics<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes (erythromycin and clarithromycin)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Aspirin\u00a0<\/span>
\nIbuprofen\u00a0<\/span>
\nMeloxicam\u00a0<\/span
\nNabumetone\u00a0<\/span>
\nNaproxen\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/td>\n		NSAIDs<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Citalopram\u00a0<\/span>
\nEscitalopram\u00a0<\/span>
\nFluoxetine\u00a0<\/span>
\nFluvoxamine\u00a0<\/span>
\nParoxetine\u00a0<\/span>
\nSertraline\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		SSRI antidepressants<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Desvenlafaxine\u00a0<\/span>
\nDuloxetine\u00a0<\/span>
\nVenlafaxine\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		SNRI antidepressants<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Amitriptyline\u00a0<\/span>
\nDesipramine\u00a0<\/span>
\nImipramine\u00a0<\/span>
\nNortriptyline\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Tricyclic antidepressants<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Baclofen\u00a0<\/span>
\nCarisoprodol\u00a0<\/span>
\nCyclobenzaprine\u00a0<\/span>
\nMetaxalone\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Muscle relaxants\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Carbamazepine<\/span>
\nDivalproex sodium<\/span>
\nGabapentin<\/span>
\nLamotrigine<\/span>
\nLevetiracetam<\/span>
\nPhenobarbital<\/span>
\nPhenytoin<\/span>
\nPregabalin<\/span>
\nTopiramate\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Anticonvulsants\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Hormonal contraceptives\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nHormonal contraceptives\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Flecainide<\/span>
\nPropafenone\u00a0<\/span>
\nThioridazine\u00a0<\/span>
\nVinblastine\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Drugs metabolized by enzyme CYP2D6<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes (propafenone, thioridazine, vinblastine)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Alprazolam\u00a0<\/span>
\nClonazepam<\/span>
\nDiazepam\u00a0<\/span>
\nLorazepam\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		Benzodiazepines<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rifampin\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nCYP3A4 inducer<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Itraconazole\u00a0<\/span>
\nKetoconazole\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n		CYP3A4 inhibitor<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Warnings of Prozac and Xanax<\/h2>\n

Prozac<\/span><\/h3>\n

SSRIs, including Prozac, have a <\/span>black box warning<\/span><\/a> of suicidality. A black box warning is the strongest warning required by the FDA. Children, adolescents, and young adults (up to 24 years old) taking antidepressants are at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Anyone who takes antidepressants should be carefully monitored.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other Prozac warnings:<\/span><\/p>\n