The Facts about Zoloft®
Drug Uses, Side Effects, Drug Interactions and Warnings
Zoloft® is the brand name of a medication called sertraline. Sertraline belongs to a group of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Zoloft® helps the brain balance its chemistry, which helps treat depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It may also be used to treat panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Zoloft® Warnings
Some patients may have suicidal thoughts after beginning Zoloft®. This is a common risk among anti-depressant medications. The risk is larger for children and young adults under 24 years of age. Regular doctor visits will be scheduled with the prescribing physician. It is important that the patient keep these appointments until a therapeutic level of the medicine has been reached for the patient.
Zoloft® may cause lung problems in newborn children. If a patient taking this medication or another SSRI becomes pregnant, consult the prescribing physician. Do not stop taking Zoloft® without first consulting a doctor. Stopping any SSRI suddently may cause a severe relapse of symptoms.
If the patient uses pimozide (Orap®) or an MAO inhibitor, such as phenelzine (Nardil®) or selegiline (Eldepryl®), the patient should not use Zoloft®. A 14 day waiting period should be observed between taking Zoloft® and an MAOI. Failure to observe the 14 day waiting period may result in a serious, possibly fatal reaction.
Special tests or dosages may be required if a patient has liver or kidney disease, seizures or epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or a drug abuse problem. Inform a physician if any of these conditions are present.
Zoloft® Dosages
According to the manufacturer, Zoloft® is available in four standard doses. A physician may prescribe a dosage other than those listed here. It is important to follow the doctor’s specific instructions.
Zoloft® is available in a liquid form. It is a 20 mg/mL oral concentrate, which is a clear solution with a distinctive menthol fragrance. This type of Zoloft® is normally prescribed to children who take it for obsessive-compulsive disorder. It may also be prescribed to patients who have trouble or issues swallowing a pill.
The tablet dosages available for Zoloft® are 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. The tablets are capsule shaped and film coated. 25 mg tables are green, 50 mg tablets are light blue, and 100 mg tablets are light yellow (drugs.com).
Zoloft® Side effects
The patient should get emergency medical attention if any signs of an allergic reaction are experienced. These symptoms include swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty breathing, and hives. An allergic reaction can be potentially life threatening and should be taken very seriously.
A doctor should be notified immediately if the patient experiences any new symptoms or if existing symptoms get worse. These symptoms include:
- Mood or behavior changes
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling impulsive, restless or hyperactive
- Feelings of irritation, agitation, aggression or hostility
- Increased feelings of depression
- Suicidal thoughts or impulse to hurt oneself
The following serious side effects have been reported by the FDA for Zoloft®:
- Very stiff muscles, overactive reflexes, or tremors
- High fever and sweating
- Fast or uneven heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling unsteady, loss of coordination or weakness
- Headaches, trouble concentrating or memory problems
- Confusion, hallucinations, fainting or seizures
- Shallow breathing or breathing that stops
The FDA has also reported these more common side effects:
- Drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness
- Mild nausea, stomach pain, upset stomach or constipation
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite and/or weight
- Sleep problems such as insomnia
- Decreased sex drive, impotence or issues reaching orgasm
Remember that the physician prescribed Zoloft® because he/she believed the benefits will outweigh the side effects. Contact the physician if any side effect becomes troublesome or intolerable. Do not stop taking Zoloft® without first speaking with a physician.
Zoloft® Drug Interactions
Do not drink alcohol while taking Zoloft®. This could increase the chance of having side effects from the medication.
Take caution when taking Zoloft® with medications such as narcotic pain relievers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers or any other medication that causes drowsiness. These medications could add to the drowsiness that Zoloft® may cause. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery or perform any tasks that require alertness.
The FDA advises speaking with a physician before taking any medications for pain, fever, or swelling. This includes medicines like aspirin, NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and others. These drugs in combination with Zoloft® may cause easy bleeding or bruising.
Speak with a physician if the patient takes any of the following medications. Dosage or medications regimen may be adjusted for patient safety. These medications include:
- Tramadol (Ultram®, Ultracet®)
- Digitoxin (Crystodigin®)
- Phenytoin (Dilantin®) or valproate (Repacone®)
- Lithium (Lithobid®)
- Blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®)
- Any other anti-depressant such as Elavil®, Celexa®, Paxil®, Prozac®, or Lexapro®
- Axert®, Imitrex®, Amerge®, Maxalt®, or Zomig®
- Hearth rhythm medications such as Tambocor®, or Rhythmol®
Not all side effects or drug interactions may have been documented. If a side effect or drug interaction other than the ones listed here or in the drug pamphlet is experienced, contact a physician or pharmacist for assistance.
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