Sertraline

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Serdep, Serlife, Sertra, Zoloft

Drug group:

Antidepressant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Sertraline is a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used in the treatment of:

• Depression – sertraline elevates mood, increases physical activity, and restores interest in everyday activities
• Anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – only useful in women with PTSD, no benefit in men

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

50–200mg once daily, usually in the morning

How quickly will it start to work?

Some effect within 14 days, full effects may take 6 weeks; anxiety disorders may take longer.  
      

How long will the effects last?

Antidepressant effect may continue for weeks after prolonged use.

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug suddenly or without consulting your doctor.

Treatment is usually stopped gradually over at least four weeks to avoid withdrawl symptoms (headache, nausea, and dizziness).   
 

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No known problems in adults.

Small risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm in children and adolescents - monitor carefully.

If you experience drowsiness, confusion, muscle cramps, or seizures you should be checked for low sodium levels in the blood.                          

What are the possible side effects?

Sertraline causes less sedation than older types of antidepressants.

The following have been reported:

• More common: nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea/loose stools, insomnia or sleepiness, anxiety, sexual dysfunction (reduced libido or arousal)
• Less common: rash, itching, or skin eruptions
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: suicidal thoughts or attempts (highest risk in children and adolescents), rash

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, epilepsy/seizures, bleeding disorders, history of mania
• Other medicines: St John’s wort, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tramadol, 5HT1 agonists (e.g. sumatriptan), antipsychotics, anticoagulants
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established, discuss with your doctor
• Children: Not generally recommended under 18 years
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause drowsiness and visual disturbances
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive intake, enhanced sedative effects