Zoloft® is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
(SSRI) used to treat depression, panic attacks,
obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD) and post-traumatic
stress disorder. This medication works by helping
to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals
in the brain.
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Zoloft®
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the
drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
Sertraline is used to treat depression, panic attacks,
obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD). This medication works by helping
to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals
in the brain.
Other Uses
This medication has also been used to treat a severe
form of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric
disorder- PMDD) and a sexual function problem in men
(premature ejaculation).
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with
or without food; or as directed by your doctor. It is
recommended that you take your dosage at the same time
each day, either in the morning or in the evening. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response
to therapy. It is important to continue taking this
medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Also,
do not stop taking this medication without consulting
your doctor. It may take up to 4 weeks before the full
benefit of this drug takes effect.
Side Effects
Nausea, headache, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth,
drowsiness, dizziness, or upset stomach may occur. If
any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your
doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any
of these serious side effects occur: loss of appetite,
unusual weight loss, unusual or severe mental/mood changes,
increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled
movements (tremor), decreased interest in sex. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but
serious side effects occur: vision changes, changes
in sexual ability, painful and/or prolonged erection.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly
unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fainting,
irregular heartbeat, chest pain, muscle pain, trouble
swallowing, ringing in in the ears, seizures. An allergic
reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate
medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic
reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness,
trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
liver problems, kidney disease, seizures, heart problems,
any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy;
use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness
such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Caution is advised when using this product
in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to
the effects of the drug. This medication should be used
only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the
risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug passes
into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the
infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not
recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with this product could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking
MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid,
moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
within 2 weeks before or after treatment with this medication.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
This drug is not recommended for use with: weight loss
drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), terfenadine,
astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medication you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants
(e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine), nefazodone, venlafaxine,
"triptan" migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan),
tramadol, tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, flecainide, propafenone,
clozapine, trazodone, lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners"
(e.g., warfarin), any herbal/natural products (e.g.,
melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca). Tell your doctor
if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as:
medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-
anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers
(e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines
such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine),
muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Report other drugs which affect the heart rhythm (QTc
prolongation), such as: dofetilide, pimozide, sotalol,
quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water pills"
(diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide).
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not
start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting,
severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory
and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your
progress.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double
the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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