Guide To Sertraline (Zoloft)

Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects of this medicine include headaches, dry mouth, sleeping difficulties, loss of appetite, and sweating. These side effects tend to be mild. Most individuals find that they resolve on their own within a few weeks of starting the medication. Some patients have experienced diarrhea, abdominal pain, chest pain, or vomiting. Additionally, it has caused confusion and aggression. Doctors should be notified of these side effects immediately. It may be necessary to adjust the patient's dose. Some patients will need to switch to another type of antidepressant.

Individuals under twenty-five years old may experience suicidal thoughts shortly after starting sertraline. Doctors should ask the patient about their mood at all follow-up visits. The patient's family and caregivers should also be alert for possible changes in their mood or behavior. Any changes should be reported to the doctor immediately. In rare cases, this medication could cause a dangerous reaction called serotonin syndrome. Fever, agitation, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, and a fast heart rate are signs of this. Patients should seek urgent medical attention for these symptoms. Emergency medical attention is also necessary for blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, and eye swelling.

Discover precautions for this medication next.

Precautions To Remember

Before taking sertraline, patients should let their doctor know about any history of cardiovascular disease, liver disease, stroke, kidney disease, or high blood pressure. They should also mention any history of seizures, bleeding disorders, or low sodium in the blood. Sertraline may not be safe for individuals with these conditions. This medication should be taken at the same time each day with or without food. Individuals must dilute the liquid form must before use. After measuring the correct dose with the provided device, they can mix it with four ounces of water, ginger ale, lemonade, orange juice, or lemon-lime soda. It must not be mixed with any other beverages. The mixture should be stirred. Patients will need to drink it immediately.

This medication may cause individuals to have a false positive on drug screening tests. Thus, patients who provide a urine sample for drug screening should inform medical staff that they take this medication. After beginning this medication, it might take up to one month for patients to notice an improvement in their symptoms. Sertraline must be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

Get the full details on potential medication interactions next.