Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.

Important Safety Information

Sertraline is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Sertraline is commonly known by the brand name Zoloft®.

Sertraline should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Do not take Sertraline if you:

• Are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking pimozide
• Are using disulfiram (with the liquid form of sertraline)
• Are allergic to sertraline or any of its ingredients

Warnings and Precautions:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors may occur, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor closely during the first few months of treatment or when adjusting the dose.
• Serotonin syndrome may occur when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, fever, nausea, vomiting, or muscle stiffness.
• May cause QT prolongation, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or taking other QT-prolonging drugs.
• Use with caution in patients with bipolar disorder, seizure disorders, liver disease, or bleeding disorders.
• May impair mental or physical abilities. Use caution when operating machinery or driving.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Seizures
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
• Signs of serotonin syndrome (e.g., agitation, confusion, hallucinations, fever, muscle rigidity)
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Common Side Effects May Include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Insomnia or drowsiness
• Increased sweating
• Fatigue
• Sexual dysfunction (e.g., decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm)

Before Taking Sertraline, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:

• Have a history of mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, or suicidal thoughts
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have heart conditions or a family history of heart rhythm issues
• Have seizures or epilepsy
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

Tell your provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including:

• Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
• Antipsychotic medications
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
• Triptans, tramadol, lithium, or St. John’s Wort
• Drugs that affect liver enzymes (e.g., CYP450 inhibitors or inducers)

Administration & Storage:

• Take sertraline exactly as prescribed, with or without food.
• Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your system.
• Do not stop taking sertraline suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

If you experience any side effects or have concerns about your medication, contact your healthcare provider right away. Do not make changes to your dosage without medical supervision.