Zoloft

The active ingredient in Zoloft is sertraline. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a key role in regulating mood, anxiety, and overall emotional well-being.

Zoloft comes in an oral tablet or liquid oral solution and is typically taken once daily.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Zoloft. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Zoloft:

• Do not crush or chew the oral tablet, Zoloft tablets should be swallowed whole with the help of a liquid
• Zoloft oral tablets can be taken with or without food
• If taking Zoloft liquid oral solution with a dropper, it must be diluted before use using water, orange juice, lemonade, ginger ale, or a lemon/lime soda
• If you are experiencing unpleasant side effects of sertraline, contact your doctor before abruptly stopping Zoloft
• If you miss your daily dose of sertraline, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next one

The most common side effects of Zoloft seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Nausea, indigestion or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Increased sweating
• Eye pain
• Agitation
• Change in sleep habits including trouble sleeping
• Sexual problems including change in libido or issues with ejaculation
• Weight gain

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Zoloft. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Suicidal thoughts or actions, typically within the first few months of taking the medication
• New or worsened anxiety disorders or panic attacks
• Worsened insomnia
• Worsening agitation or violent thoughts
• Glaucoma
• Heart problems
• Drastic change in behavior, such as talking more than is normal for you
• Serotonin syndrome symptoms, including dizziness, tremors, rapid heart rate, or seizures
• Adolescents taking Zoloft may experience changes in weight

These are not all of the possible side effects of Zoloft. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Zoloft, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• History of suicidal thoughts or actions
• History of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Bipolar Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or are currently taking medications for these disorders
• History of allergic reaction to sertraline or any Zoloft ingredients
• History of bleeding problems or high blood pressure
• Are taking any other medications containing sertraline, such as sertraline hydrochloride

If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, please notify your healthcare professional as Zoloft may not be safe for you to use.

• Have taken or are currently taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), such as linezolid or methylene blue
• Have taken or are currently taking an antipsychotic, such as pimozide
• Have taken or are currently taking disulfiram, such as Antabuse

Zoloft typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for optimal results, although people can start feeling benefits within the first few weeks.

When Zoloft is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as warfarin, ibuprofen or naproxen
• Prescribed opioids, such as tramadol or fentanyl
• Other antidepressant medications, such as SNRIs
• Herbal supplements, such as St. John’s Wort

Zoloft comes in doses of 25, 50, and 100 milligrams. The liquid oral solution currently comes in a dosage of 20 mg/ml. 50 mg is commonly prescribed as a maintenance dose for those diagnosed with depression or other anxiety disorders.

Store Zoloft at room temperature in a cool, dry area that is out of reach of children.

Zoloft is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer Inc.

Sertraline or sertraline hydrochloride is the generic version of Zoloft.

Before stopping Zoloft, speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation, determine if it’s appropriate to stop and guide you through the process. Your doctor may recommend a gradual tapering schedule to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Zoloft is considered safe during pregnancy, but you may be recommended a lower dose depending on your pregnancy stage.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Zoloft is considered safe to use while breastfeeding, but you may be recommended a lower dose.