Description
Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Sertraline affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Zoloft is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Zoloft may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
You should not use Zoloft if you are allergic to sertraline or similar medications such as fluoxetine
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
-nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
-increased sweating;
-shaking (tremor);
-agitation, restlessness;
-dizziness, drowsiness, tired feeling;
-sleep problems (insomnia); or
-feeling jittery.
Serious side effects may include:
-seizure (convulsions);
-low sodium levels in the body – headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling restless or irritable; or
-manic episodes – racing thoughts, increased energy, unusual risk-taking behavior.
Zoloft can increase suicidal thoughts.
Dosages
-Zoloft oral solution: 20 mg/ml, 30 ml
– Zoloft tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
– Zoloft chewable dispersible tablets: 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, 25 mg
– Zoloft oral concentrate: 20mg/ml
How to take Zoloft
Take Zoloft exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from Zoloft. Zoloft can be taken with or without food. Try to take the medicine at the same time each day. Zoloft oral concentrate must be diluted before you take it. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. It may take up to 4 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using Zoloft as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.
Do not stop taking Zoloft without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking Zoloft suddenly. Store Zoloft at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Uses
Zoloft is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Zoloft may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use Zoloft if you are allergic to sertraline or similar medications such as fluoxetine , paroxetine , Paxil
Zoloft can increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, or young adults within the first few months of treatment. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts or actions.
