Sertraline, commonly known by the brand name Zoloft, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and related conditions. Like most medications, sertraline can cause a range of side effects, from mild to serious and rare[2].
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Loss of appetite or changes in weight
- Increased sweating
- Shaking or tremor
- Headache
- Tiredness or drowsiness
- Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep habits
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sexual problems (such as decreased libido, inability to ejaculate, or difficulty achieving orgasm)
- Anxiety or nervousness
These common side effects are usually mild and may go away within a few weeks of starting treatment[1][2][3][5].
Potentially serious side effects: Call your doctor or seek emergency help if you experience:
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Seizures (fits)
- Vision changes, eye pain, redness, or swelling
- Signs of low blood sodium (headache, confusion, weakness, unsteadiness)
- Manic episodes (racing thoughts, excessive energy or happiness, risky behaviors, irritability)
- Mood or personality changes (new or worsening anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, irritability, restlessness, impulsivity, suicidal thoughts)
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, fever, heavy sweating, shivering, muscle stiffness, twitching, coordination problems, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Serious allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing)
- Severe rash with blistering or peeling, especially around the mouth or eyes
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (a sign of liver problems)
If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately[1][3][7].
Children and adolescents: In young people, sertraline may cause increased agitation, aggression, nosebleeds, frequent urination, and potentially slowed growth and weight change. Their doctor should monitor growth regularly[1][5].
Additional precautions:
- Do not use sertraline with MAOIs or certain other medications due to risk of dangerous interactions[6].
- Avoid grapefruit juice while taking sertraline as it can increase the risk of side effects[2].
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