Some important information about Zoloft (Sertraline)
Zoloft (sertraline) may be prescribed for managing the symptoms of mood disorders. In this article, we cover some important information you may want to discuss with your doctor, from typical dosages to their compatibility with other medications.
Read on for more information about Zoloft (sertraline). Plus, discover the ease of managing your prescription medications with Chemist2U.
In this article
How does Zoloft (sertraline) work?
Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) category. It is typically used to treat anxiety and depression, as well as other mood disorders. It is thought to enhance the brain’s serotonin levels. Serotonin, a vital neurotransmitter, plays a significant role in mood regulation, shaping our personality and influencing wakefulness.[1]
As Zoloft (sertraline) is thought to block the reuptake of serotonin in the neurons, it may boost serotonin levels in the brain. This could contribute positively to mood enhancement in individuals experiencing depression and various mental health conditions.
How do you take Zoloft (sertraline)?
Taking Zoloft (sertraline), which is typically available in tablet forms of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, as well as a 20 mg/mL oral solution, should be done with careful adherence to your doctor’s instructions.
For those managing major depressive disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, the typical starting dose is 50 mg daily. The maintenance dose usually ranges from 50 to 200 mg once daily, with potential weekly adjustments based on your response to the medication.[2] Only your doctor can prescribe a suitable dosage, so consult them before making any changes to your medication.
Avoid stopping Zoloft (sertraline) abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to symptoms like anxiety, mood fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Taking two doses at once is not advisable.[3]
Who can take Zoloft (sertraline)?
Zoloft (sertraline) can be prescribed to adults and adolescents aged 18 and over for various conditions, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and panic disorder, as determined by your doctor.[4] It is also approved for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents over six years old.[5]
However, it’s important to note that Zoloft (sertraline) should not be used in children and adolescents under eighteen for conditions other than OCD, as its effectiveness and safety for these age groups have not been conclusively proven.
Additionally, for children under six years, including those with OCD, Zoloft (sertraline) is not recommended due to the lack of established safety and efficacy data.
Always consult with a doctor for guidance before taking Zoloft (sertraline). They may recommend other mental health medication options, such as Cymbalta (duloxetine) or Prozac (fluoxetine), if they find them more suitable for your situation.
Side effects of Zoloft (sertraline)
When taking Zoloft (sertraline), you may experience the following potential side effects.[6][7]
In adults, the most commonly reported ones include nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, indigestion, increased sweating, tremors, agitation, changes in sleep patterns like insomnia or increased sleepiness, sexual problems such as decreased libido and ejaculation failure, fatigue, and anxiety.
For children and adolescents, side effects might differ slightly, including abnormal muscle movement or agitation, nosebleeds, urinary incontinence, aggressive reactions, potential slowed growth, and weight changes. You should monitor your child’s height and weight while he or she is taking Zoloft (sertraline).
Zoloft (sertraline) and similar antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some individuals under 24 years old, particularly during the initial months of treatment or when the dosage is adjusted.[8] If you notice any new or sudden changes in emotional health, behaviour, or thoughts, and especially if they are severe, contact your doctor immediately.
Zoloft (sertraline) and other medications
Zoloft (sertraline) can have interactions with other medications, which could lead to heightened side effects or more serious health concerns.
Notably, Zoloft (sertraline) has major interactions with medications such as Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It also exhibits moderate interactions with common drugs like aspirin, Seroquel (quetiapine), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), and Lyrica (pregabalin), among others.[9]
Always let your doctor know what medications and substances you are taking. This will help minimise any potential unwanted interactions.
Medicines you should not use with Zoloft (sertraline)
Zoloft (sertraline) should not be combined with any monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including intravenous methylene blue or the antibiotic linezolid, especially if taken in the last two weeks. An interval of 14 days is recommended between discontinuing Zoloft (sertraline) and starting an MAOI due to the risk of severe side effects.[10]
Also, it is important to avoid using Zoloft (sertraline) alongside other psychiatric medications that contain sertraline in any form. Combining Zoloft (sertraline) with the antipsychotic drug pimozide (e.g. Orap) is contraindicated because of the potential for serious heart complications. Finally, if you are using the liquid form of Zoloft (sertraline), steer clear of Antabuse (disulfiram), which contains alcohol.
How to order Zoloft (sertraline) through Chemist2U
Ordering your prescription drugs like Zoloft (sertraline) online with Chemist2U is quick and easy. Simply download our app or use this website to start, where you can upload your eScripts. You can also add any over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products you need, just like if you were in a physical pharmacy.
Rest assured, a trusted partner pharmacist from your local area will dispense your order. Enjoy the convenience of same-day delivery in metro and major regional areas across Australia.
With Chemist2U, managing your medications is easy. Have your medication home-delivered by Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689/
[3] https://www.zoloft.com/en/taking-zoloft
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582954/
[5] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/9f95dc01-a4fe-4130-a0b8-a53300ff386f.pdf
[6] https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/medguide.cfm?setid=fda754f6-d0f3-4dce-a17a-927d64f912f7
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12383038
[8] https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/medguide.cfm?setid=fda754f6-d0f3-4dce-a17a-927d64f912f7
