Guide To Sertraline (Zoloft)

Sertraline (Zoloft) is a prescription antidepressant. It belongs to a type called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In adults, the typical starting dose is twenty-five to fifty milligrams. The therapeutic range is between fifty to two hundred milligrams. Individuals with mild liver impairment may be prescribed half of the standard dose, as it is not considered safe for moderate to severe impairment. Patients will also need to be screened for bipolar disorder first.

A sertraline prescription treats several mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorder and panic disorder. As well, these antidepressant pills are a major depression treatment. Some individuals consider them the best medicine for depression. However, other treatments for depression may be needed. This includes therapy for depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one such strategy for this.

How It Works

Sertraline blocks the reabsorption of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This increases the patient's overall serotonin levels, reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety. While sertraline does not make the body produce more serotonin, it does help the body use existing serotonin more effectively.

Unlike some other types of antidepressants that alter the body's levels of multiple neurotransmitters, this class of medication mainly impacts the patient's serotonin. However, high doses of sertraline can also block the reuptake of dopamine. Some researchers believe that it is more accurately categorized as a serotonin-dopamine reuptake inhibitor.

Continue reading to uncover the uses for this medication next.

Uses For Sertraline

Sertraline is most frequently prescribed to treat major depression. Doctors may also prescribe it to patients with panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, or social anxiety. The medication can also be used as premenstrual dysphoric disorder treatment. In some instances, doctors will prescribe sertraline for 'off-label' uses. Examples of this include treating binge eating disorder, bulimia, seasonal affective disorder, bipolar depression, autism, chronic fatigue syndrome, or fibromyalgia. It has also been helpful for individuals with alcohol dependency, neurocardiogenic syncope, bed-wetting, or aggressive behavior. Sertraline has been used to treat writer's cramp too. Patients should ask their doctor about the risks and benefits of using sertraline for 'off-label' purposes.

Reveal the side effects of this medication next.