Sertraline
PrescriptionWhat is Sertraline?
Sertraline is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs. These medications help treat depression and anxiety by changing how your brain uses certain chemicals. Doctors prescribe sertraline to millions of people every year to help improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels.
The FDA approved sertraline in 1991, and it has since become one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the United States. It works gradually over several weeks, so you may not feel better right away. Most people start noticing improvements in their symptoms after 4 to 6 weeks of treatment. Your doctor will work with you to find the right dose for your specific needs.
Sertraline requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. It comes as an oral tablet or liquid solution that you take once daily, usually in the morning or evening. Many people take this medication for several months or longer, depending on their condition and how they respond to treatment.
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Common uses
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder, also called OCD
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder, also called PTSD
- Social anxiety disorder
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also called PMDD
How it works
Sertraline works by increasing the amount of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a natural chemical messenger that helps regulate mood, emotions, and sleep. When serotonin levels are too low, you may experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms. Sertraline blocks the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, which means more serotonin stays available to send messages between nerve cells.
This process does not happen overnight. It takes several weeks for sertraline to build up in your system and create lasting changes in your brain chemistry. During this time, the increased serotonin levels help improve communication between different parts of your brain that control mood and emotional responses. This gradual effect is why doctors recommend staying on the medication even if you do not feel better immediately.
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Dosage information
The typical starting dose for adults is 50 mg once daily. Your doctor may start you at 25 mg if you have certain conditions or are sensitive to medications. Depending on your response, your doctor may gradually increase your dose up to 200 mg per day. Children and adolescents usually start at lower doses based on their age and weight. Always take sertraline exactly as your doctor prescribes, and never adjust your dose without medical guidance.
Side effects
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Difficulty sleeping or drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sexual side effects, including decreased desire or difficulty reaching orgasm
- Tremors or shakiness
- Fatigue or tiredness
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor right away if you experience unusual bleeding or bruising, severe headaches, vision changes, seizures, confusion, or unusual mood changes. Some people may experience a serious drop in sodium levels, especially older adults. Rare but serious side effects include serotonin syndrome, which causes agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, and severe nausea. Young adults under 25 may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts when starting antidepressants, so close monitoring is important.
Drug interactions
- Other antidepressants, especially MAO inhibitors, which can cause dangerous interactions
- Blood thinners like warfarin, which may increase bleeding risk
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also called NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or aspirin
- Other medications that affect serotonin, including triptans for migraines and tramadol for pain
- St. John's Wort and other herbal supplements
- Medications that affect liver enzymes, which can change how your body processes sertraline
- Certain heart medications and blood pressure drugs
- Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness and side effects
Blood test monitoring
While taking sertraline, your doctor may recommend blood tests to monitor your sodium levels and liver function. Low sodium, also called hyponatremia, can occur with SSRI use, especially in older adults or people taking diuretics. Symptoms include headache, confusion, weakness, and difficulty concentrating. Liver enzyme tests help ensure that sertraline is not affecting your liver function, though liver problems are uncommon with this medication.
Related blood tests
Taking Sertraline? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Most people start noticing some improvement in their symptoms after 2 to 4 weeks of taking sertraline. However, it may take 6 to 8 weeks to feel the full benefits of the medication. During the first few weeks, you might notice better sleep or appetite before your mood improves. Stay in close contact with your doctor during this time to discuss your progress.
Yes, Rite Aid Pharmacy will fill sertraline prescriptions when pharmacy services return. You will need a valid prescription from your doctor or healthcare provider. Sertraline is available as a generic medication, which is typically less expensive than brand-name versions. Contact your local Rite Aid to check availability and discuss your prescription needs.
Your doctor may recommend checking your sodium levels and liver enzymes while you take sertraline. Low sodium is more common in older adults and can cause serious symptoms if not detected. Rite Aid offers blood testing services with over 200 biomarkers for $349 per year, including 2 tests annually. This helps you and your doctor monitor your health while on medication.
Doctors generally recommend avoiding alcohol while taking sertraline. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects of the medication. It can also worsen depression and anxiety symptoms, which works against the purpose of your treatment. If you do choose to drink, talk to your doctor about safe limits for your situation.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Taking sertraline at the same time each day can help you remember.
No, you should not stop taking sertraline suddenly, even if you feel better. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability. Your doctor will help you gradually reduce your dose over several weeks when it is time to stop. Many people need to take sertraline for 6 months or longer to prevent symptoms from returning.
Some people experience weight changes while taking sertraline, but responses vary. Some people lose weight initially due to side effects like nausea. Others may gain weight over time, possibly because they feel better and their appetite returns. Weight changes are usually modest, and not everyone experiences them.
Sertraline use during pregnancy requires careful discussion with your doctor. Some studies suggest a small increased risk of certain complications, but untreated depression also poses risks to both mother and baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks for your specific situation. Sertraline does pass into breast milk, so talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Sertraline can cause dizziness or drowsiness, especially when you first start taking it. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Most people tolerate sertraline well and can continue their normal activities. If you experience ongoing dizziness or drowsiness, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dose or timing.
Sertraline is an SSRI, which means it specifically targets serotonin in the brain. Other types of antidepressants work on different brain chemicals or combinations of chemicals. Sertraline tends to have fewer drug interactions than some older antidepressants. Your doctor chooses a specific medication based on your symptoms, medical history, and how you respond to treatment.