Zoloft info
Drug Uses
This medicine is used to treat depression, panic disorder,
obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder. Sertraline is also approved for the treatment
of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Your doctor may
use this medicine to treat other conditions as well.
General Information
This information is for educational purposes only. Not every
known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is
in this database. If you have questions about your medicines,
talk to your health care provider.
How it Works
This drug relieves depression by slowly restoring a chemical
in the brain (serotonin) to normal levels. Proper levels
of serotonin are necessary for our well-being.
How to Take
It
Follow the instructions that you doctor has given you. This
medicine should be taken regularly and continuously the
same time every day. This medicine is taken orally and may
be taken with food to avoid stomach upset.
Possible Side
Effects
- nervousness
- trouble sleeping
- headache, drowsiness
- dry mouth
- tremor or muscle spasms
- ejaculation delay
- nausea, diarrhea
- increased sweating
Warnings/Precautions
- Zoloft may take several weeks to reach full effect.
- Don’t stop taking the medication without consulting
with your doctor first.
- Also, make sure you know how you react to the medicine
before driving or performing tasks that require your full
attention.
- Zoloft has an added effect when taken with alcohol. Alcohol
is not recommended while on Zoloft.
Overdose
- Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies,
contact your local or regional poison control center.
Drug Interactions
- Certain antibiotics such as Erythromycin can increase
the effects of sertraline and may lead to a condition called,
“Serotonin Syndrome” with symptoms of increased
muscle tone, shivering and altered consciousness.
- If you are taking a tricyclic antidepressant, talk to
your doctor before taking this medicine.
- Certain antidepressants may increase the negative effects
of sertraline when taken together.
- This medicine should not be taken with St. John’s
Wort.
Missed Dose
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time
for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to
your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly
closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature
and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer
needed.
Pregnancy/Nursing
Adequate studies of pregnant women are not available. Talk
to your doctor before using this medicine. Sertraline is
detected in breast milk. Discuss breast feeding with your
doctor.
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