Generic Name: Sertraline
Typical Brand Name(s): Zoloft
What Is It Used For?
Zoloft is most commonly used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Zoloft may also be
used for purposes other than those listed here.
How Is It Used?
Take Zoloft exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each tablet
with water. Try to take Zoloft at the same time each day. Zoloft
may be taken with or without food. Do not stop taking Zoloft without
first talking to your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or more for
you to start feeling better and you may experience unpleasant
side effects if you stop taking Zoloft suddenly.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Stop taking Zoloft and contact your doctor immediately or seek
emergency medical treatment if you experience any of the following:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat;
swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular
heartbeat or pulse; low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);
high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or chills
or fever. If you experience any of the following less serious
side effects, continue taking Zoloft and talk to your doctor:
headache; tremor, nervousness, or anxiety; nausea, diarrhea, dry
mouth, or changes in appetite or weight; sleepiness or insomnia.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk
to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
Is It Safe?
Do not stop taking Zoloft without first talking to your doctor.
It may take 4 weeks or more for you to start feeling better and
you may experience unpleasant side effects if you stop taking
Zoloft suddenly. Do not share this medication with others.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Do not take Zoloft if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor
(MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or
tranylcypromine (Parnate) during the last 2 weeks. Serious, and
sometimes fatal, reactions have occurred when these medicines
have been used together. Do not take Zoloft if you are taking
pimozide (Orap). A dangerous drug interaction could result. Many
prescription and over the counter medications can have an adverse
affect if taken with Zoloft. Before taking Zoloft, tell your doctor
any and all medications you are taking. Do not take the Zoloft
Oral Concentrate without first talking to your doctor if you are
taking disulfiram (Antabuse). The oral solution contains alcohol,
which may interact with disulfiram. Drugs other than those listed
here may also interact with Zoloft. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist
before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines,
including herbal products.
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is
almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed
dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose
of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store it at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Zoloft is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors. Zoloft affects chemicals in the brain that may become
unbalanced and cause depression, panic or anxiety, obsessive or
compulsive symptoms, or other psychiatric symptoms. Zoloft is
used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic
disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric
disorder (PMDD), and social anxiety disorder, also known as social
phobia.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
