Zoloft (Sertraline)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Zoloft belongs to a category of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s). A decrease in brain serotonin appears to be related to a depressed mood. Thus, drugs in this category act as antidepressants.
Side Effects
The most significant side effects are: drowsiness, mild tremor, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia. Importantly, decreased sexual drive (decreased libido) in both sexes and failure of ejaculation in men may occur.
Drug Interactions
Zoloft should not be used with the class of antidepressants call monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s). Contact your physician to be sure you are not also taking any of those drugs. Zoloft may increase the effect of warfarin, an anticoagulant, and careful monitoring of blood coagualtion parameters should be followed if the two are prescribed together.
Cautions and Contraindications
None
Usual Dose
Initially, 25 mg daily increasing to a maximum of 200 mg/day.
Note
Due to the pharmacology of this drug it may take over 30 days before significant therapeutic effect is noticed.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.