Generic Zoloft - sertraline - is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Zoloft is approved to treat depression, social anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in adults over age 18. It is also approved for OCD in children and adolescents age 6-17 years. Sertraline was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in December, 1991.


 

FAQ

How does Zoloft work?
Zoloft (brand name made by Pfizer) or Sertraline (generic Zoloft) is used to treat the symptoms of depression. It works by allowing nerves to communicate longer with each other through the presence of serotonin. It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin from the area between nerves (synapses).

The mechanism of action of sertraline is presumed to be linked to its inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin (5HT). Studies at clinically relevant doses in man have demonstrated that sertraline blocks the uptake of serotonin into human platelets. In vitro studies in animals also suggest that sertraline is a potent and selective inhibitor of neuronal serotonin reuptake and has only very weak effects on norepinephrine and dopamine neuronal reuptake.

How to use Zoloft
The recommended dose of sertraline is 25-200 mg once daily. Treatment usually is started at 25-50 once daily and then increased at weekly intervals until the desired response is seen. Zoloft may be taken with or without food.

Length of treatment with Zoloft is different from person to person. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recommends all medicines for depression and anxiety should be taken for six months to one year in order to prevent symptoms from returning. Your doctor will decide how long you need to be on Zoloft. It's important to keep taking Zoloft as directed. Even if you feel better, you shouldn't stop taking Zoloft without talking to your doctor first.

Zoloft side effects
Some people taking Zoloft may have side effects. The most common side effects include upset stomach, having trouble sleeping, diarrhea, dry mouth, sexual side effects, feeling unusually sleepy or tired, tremor, indigestion, increase of sweating, feeling agitated, and decreased appetite.

In clinical studies with Zoloft, few patients were bothered enough by side effects to stop taking their medicine. Tell your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing. Your doctor may be able to adjust your treatment plan to help you feel better.

Zoloft and pregnancy
If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Zoloft during pregnancy. It is unknown if Zoloft is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Zoloft, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

When treating a pregnant woman with Zoloft during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus..