Can I Take These?

Can You Take Escitalopram and Sertraline Together?

Both escitalopram's and sertraline's FDA labels name "other SSRIs" directly as a serotonin syndrome risk when combined with an SSRI.

Use cautionEvidence: High

See the full Escitalopram page and Sertraline page for other reviewed interactions and reference information.

What the interaction means

Escitalopram's FDA prescribing information states, in its Drug Interactions section on other serotonergic drugs: "Concomitant use of Lexapro and other serotonergic drugs (including other SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, buspirone, amphetamines, tryptophan, and St. John's Wort)" increases serotonin syndrome risk. Sertraline's own FDA label states the identical guidance from its side, in its "Other Serotonergic Drugs" examples: "Other SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John's Wort." Neither label names the other drug individually, but both explicitly list "other SSRIs" as a named risk class.

Why it may happen

Both escitalopram and sertraline are SSRIs that increase serotonin activity by blocking its reuptake at the neuronal synapse. Combining two drugs from the same serotonergic class compounds serotonin activity rather than adding a distinct, complementary mechanism, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome -- a potentially serious condition involving agitation, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, muscle rigidity, and fever.

Practical context

Prescribers do not typically combine two full-dose SSRIs, since this offers no established added benefit and increases side-effect and serotonin syndrome risk. This combination should only occur under direct medical supervision, such as during a deliberate, monitored switch from one SSRI to another; anyone who finds themselves prescribed both should confirm this is intentional with their prescriber.

What the sources say

Sertraline Hydrochloride Tablets — FDA Prescribing Information — Via DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineLEXAPRO (escitalopram) Tablets and Oral Solution — FDA Prescribing Information — Allergan, Inc. (via DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine)

Last reviewed 2026-08-24

Medical information disclaimer: this information is general and educational. It does not diagnose conditions, prescribe treatment, or determine whether a combination is safe for you personally. Follow your prescription label and ask a pharmacist or clinician before starting, stopping, or combining products. Full disclaimer.

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