Why is Zoloft prescribed?

Zoloft (Sertraline) is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (bothersome thoughts that won't go away and the need to perform certain actions over and over), panic attacks (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks), posttraumatic stress disorder (disturbing psychological symptoms that develop after a frightening experience), and social anxiety disorder (extreme fear of interacting with others or performing in front of others that interferes with normal life). It is also used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, including mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness. Sertraline is in a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amounts of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. Sertraline (Generic) is available in addition to the brand name. 

What is the most effective wat to take Zoloft?

Use Zoloft (sertraline tablets) as ordered by your doctor. Read all the information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Take with or without food
• Keep taking Zoloft (sertraline tablets) as you have been told by your doctor or other health care provider, even if you feel well.

Before taking Zoloft, tell your doctor:

• If you have an allergy to Sertraline or any other drug allergies
• If you are allergic to any drugs like this one, any other drugs, foods, or other substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had, i.e. rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs.
• If you have ever had liver disease
• If you are taking any of these drugs: Linezolid, methylene blue, or pimozide 
• If you have taken certain drugs for depression or Parkinson's in the last 14 days. This includes phenelzine. This can cause very high blood pressure
• If you are taking any drugs that can cause a certain type of heartbeat that is not normal (prolonged QT interval). There are many drugs that can do this. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Zoloft (sertraline tablets).

Common Zoloft side effects include but are not limited to:

• nausea
• dizziness/drowsiness
• dry mouth
• loss of appetite
• upset stomach
• insomnia

If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• easy bruising/bleeding
• decreased interest in sex
• a decrease in sexual ability (ejaculation delay)
• shaking (tremor)
• muscle weakness

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including:

• fast/irregular heartbeat
• black/bloody stools
• vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes

Get medical help right away if you experience any of these more rarer symptoms:

• This medication may increase serotonin and rarely cause a very serious condition called 'serotonin syndrome'. The risk increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, so tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take. Get medical help right away if you develop some of the following symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting, twitching muscles, unusual agitation/restlessness.
• males may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.
• signs of an allergic reaction - rash/itching/swelling of the face, mouth, tongue; severe dizziness or trouble breathing

Why is Zoloft prescribed?

Zoloft is an antidepressant used to treat a number of psychiatric disorders including PTSD, OCD, depression, and social anxiety problems.

What if I miss a dose of Zoloft?

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.