Zoloft

Generic name: Sertraline hydrochloride

What is Zoloft?

Zoloft is an antidepressant medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

What is the most important information I should know about Zoloft?

Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and teenagers. Adult and pediatric patients taking antidepressants should be watched closely for changes in moods or actions, especially when they first start therapy or when their dose is increased or decreased. Patients and their families should contact the doctor immediately if new symptoms develop or seem to get worse. Signs to watch for include anxiety, hostility, sleeplessness, restlessness, impulsive or dangerous behavior, and thoughts about suicide or dying.

Zoloft is not recommended in children and adolescents, except for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Who should not take Zoloft?

Do not take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within 2 weeks before or after treatment with this medication. In some cases a serious, possibly fatal, reaction may occur. Examples of MAOIs include selegiline and the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zoloft?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zoloft. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney problems, seizure or bleeding disorders, or a history of suicide or mental illness.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Major Depression

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 milligrams (mg) once a day. If needed, your dose may be increased to up to 200 mg once a day.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 mg once a day. If needed, your dose may be increased to up to 200 mg once a day.

Children: For children 6-12 years old, the usual starting dose is 25 mg once a day. For children 13-17 years old, the usual starting dose is 50 mg once a day. Your child's dose may be increased up to a maximum of 200 mg per day depending on his or her condition.

Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder

Adults: The usual starting dose is 25 mg once a day. After 1 week, your dose may be increased to 50 mg once a day. If needed, your dose may be increased to 200 mg once a day.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 mg once a day. If needed, your dose may be increased to 150 mg once a day.

How should I take Zoloft?

Zoloft should be taken once a day in the morning or in the evening. Take it at the same time every day. Zoloft may be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Zoloft?

You should not drink alcohol while taking Zoloft. You should also not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until you know how this drug affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zoloft?

If Zoloft is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zoloft with the following: alcohol, aspirin, cimetidine, diazepam, digitoxin, flecainide, lithium, other antidepressants, MAOIs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), phenytoin, pimozide, propafenone, sumatriptan, tolbutamide, valproate, and warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Zoloft?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: stomach pain, agitation, anxiety, changes in vision, constipation, decreased sexual drive, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, inability to sleep, increased sweating, loss of appetite/upset stomach, nausea, ejaculation problems, shakiness, tiredness

Can I receive Zoloft if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zoloft during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zoloft?

Take it as soon as your remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Zoloft?

Store at room temperature.