Adderall vs Zoloft
A side-by-side look at two mental health medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| US Adderall | US Zoloft | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | amphetamine/dextroamphetamine | sertraline |
| Drug class | CNS Stimulant | SSRI (Antidepressant) |
| Treats | ADHD, narcolepsy | Depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD |
| Category | Mental Health | Mental Health |
| Manufacturer | Teva | Pfizer |
| Year approved | 1996 | 1991 |
| FDA warning | Black box warning | Black box warning |
| Est. TV ad spend | $1M | $1M |
| Common side effects | High potential for abuse and dependence, Insomnia, Decreased appetite, Increased heart rate | Nausea, Sexual problems, Insomnia, Diarrhea |
Frequently asked questions
Is Adderall or Zoloft better?
Neither is universally "better." Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both used for mental health, but the right choice depends on your medical history, insurance and your doctor's guidance. This comparison is informational only.
What's the difference between Adderall and Zoloft?
Adderall is a CNS Stimulant made by Teva, while Zoloft is a SSRI (Antidepressant) made by Pfizer. See the table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
Which one spends more on TV ads?
Adderall has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.