Zoloft--generic or brand?

[JenniferMSD]

Ten years ago I took Zoloft with great results (brand--there were no generic Zoloft back then).  I was just prescribed it again.  The pharmacy wants $8 for generic (Greenstone) and $36 for brand.  I have read mixed things about generic Zoloft, so thought I'd ask your thoughts! thanks.

[Krisse]

I have some pretty major opinions on this generic versus brand name drug choice.  I started taking Sertraline in August 2008.  I stayed on the generic for a few months and then, when it wasn't working too well, decided to try the brand name of Zoloft.  HUGE DIFFERENCE.  I noticed a chance within a week or two and have been doing well on it ever since. 

Years before, I had taken brand name Paxil because there was no generic.  Due to the price, I was VERY excited when the generic Paroxetine became available.  After my first prescription of the generic, I started having anxiety symptom out of nowhere after doing so well on Paxil for about 5 years.  I mentioned this to my psychiatrist and she said it *could* be the generic. Went back on brand name and was fine.

Here's the thing... it's different for everyone.  FOR ME, generics don't seem to work.  I do consider myself pretty sensitive to meds with side effects etc.  I would definitely try the generic first and then, if it doesn't seem to be working that well, give the brand name a try and see if there's a difference!  The generic for me cost $7 and the brand name costs $20.  Totally worth it for me to feel well :)  Keep us posted!

[JenniferMSD]

Well, it's been a little over three weeks and my body has now adjusted to the Zoloft. I am glad I stayed on it.  I will admit the first 2 or 3 weeks I did have some mild side effects, such as night sweats, headaches, teething grinding/clenching and insomnia.  But, I just pushed through and I feel good. 

On other note, I know their is a debate with Zoloft brand vs. generic. I am on the generic (manufacturer Greenstone). I was looking at $7 vs. $36 each month.

[WiSp]

According to doctors I've seen, generic is 20% less effective, minimum (they were really adding the word "minimum").

[joyce49]

When I was on 25mg it was the generic. I started the brand name yesterday and felt a difference. Not major but I believe there is a difference between the generic and brand name.

I guess its debateable cause my doctor told me there wasnt any difference and some say it does. I felt the difference. And my wallet too 

[WiSp]

Doctors said to me that there is another difference too. Each laboratory uses different kind of material for their pills. It has been said to me that some materials react badly with sertralin, for some people. It could explain why I got problems when I changed of lab provider. But well I don't know how much it can be true. For the effectiveness, I've no doubts about it. Generic would be at least 20% less effective.

[erica27857]

JenniferMSD i have just started zoloft and my boyfriend has noticed me grinding my teeth as well!!! does it make sense that this medication could cause teeth grinding?


generic prescriptions are THE SAME as brand name meds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[WiSp]

JenniferMSD does it make sense that this medication could cause teeth grinding?

It does for some people. Dentists know about this.