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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Lexapro (escitalopram) are antidepressant medications. Though these two medications have some similarities, there are a few key differences. Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between Lexapro and Cymbalta and why a healthcare provider may recommend one of these medications over the other to treat depression. Getty Images / Bloomberg / Contributor Key Differences Between Cymbalta and Lexapro Cymbalta and Lexapro are alike and different in many ways. Both are commonly taken to treat depression and anxiety disorders. But Cymbalta is approved to treat other conditions as well. They also belong to different drug classes, have slightly different mechanisms of action, and may cause different side effects. Lexapro is a brand-name drug also known by its generic name: escitalopram. It belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Cymbalta, on the other hand, is a brand-name medication also known as duloxetine. It belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) drug class. The table below compares key facts about the two medications. Comparing Lexapro vs. CymbaltaLexapro (escitalopram)Cymbalta (duloxetine)Medication ClassSSRISNRIFDA-Approved UsesMajor depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and children 12 and up; Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and children 7 and upMajor depressive disorder (MDD) in adults; Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and children 7 and up; Fibromyalgia in adults and children 13 and up; Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in adults; Chronic musculoskeletal pain in adultsDosage FormsOral tabletOral delayed-release capsuleRecommended Dosage for Depression or Anxiety MDD or GAD: 10–20 milligrams
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