How Zoloft (Sertraline) Works

How Zoloft (Sertraline) Works Phobias Types Print How Zoloft (Sertraline) Is Used as a Treatment Interactions, Side Effects, and Cautions By Lisa Fritscher Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor with a deep interest in phobias and other mental health topics. Learn about our editorial policy Lisa Fritscher Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on August 16, 2019 Pfizer antidepressant drug Zoloft is arranged at Skenderian. Credit: Bloomberg / Contributor / Getty Images More in Phobias Types Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Treatment In This Article Table of Contents Expand How SSRIs Work Dosage Drug Interactions Cautions Side Effects Withdrawal Symptoms View All Back To Top Zoloft (sertraline) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Although it is most commonly used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Zoloft is sometimes prescribed for social phobia and other phobias. Learn how it works, possible side effects, and precautions. How SSRIs Work SSRIs  are known as  second-generation antidepressants  since they are newer than  monoamine oxidase inhibitors  (MAOIs) and  tricyclic antidepressants  (TCAs).  SSRIs work by slowing the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter, which transmits electrical impulses from one neuron to the next. Normally, serotonin is quickly reabsorbed, but an SSRI lets the serotonin remain in the synaptic gap between neurons for a longer period of time. This allows the chemical to send additional messages to the receiving neuron, which in turn is thought to boost mood. Dosage Zoloft is available in a variety of strengths  and is only sold by prescription. Both liquid and tablet forms of the medication are available. Like all medications in its class, Zoloft does not perform optimally until you have taken it consistently for several weeks. You may or may not begin to feel the effects more quickly. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. Drug Interactions Avoid the liquid formulation of Zoloft if you are on Antabuse (disulfiram) because it contains alcohol. Wait at least 14 days after your last dose of any MAOI before beginning sertraline treatment. Zoloft interacts with a wide range of natural remedies. Ask your doctor before taking tryptophan, St. Johns wort, or any other herbal or natural formulation. In addition, Zoloft interacts with numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications, including NSAID pain relievers, diuretics, stomach medicines, blood thinners, and treatments for certain mental illnesses. Provide your doctor with a full list of all over-the-counter, prescription, and natural products you use, and do not add anything new without your doctors approval. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs while using sertraline. Cautions Since 2005, all SSRIs have carried black box warnings from the FDA regarding a higher risk for suicidal ideation and behavior in children. The FDA expanded its warning in 2007 to include young adults under the age of 25. Although many young people successfully take these common medications, informed consent is important. Discuss the benefits and risks with your childs doctor before making a decision. Your risks from Zoloft may be higher if you have certain medical conditions, including diabetes, low blood sodium levels, seizures, and liver disease. Give your doctor a full medical history of all current and previous illnesses. Also, let your doctor know if you have a history of drug abuse. If you are currently breastfeeding or pregnant, or if you plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your physician. Side Effects Like all medicines, Zoloft carries a risk for side effects. Common side effects such as headache, sleep difficulties, dry mouth, sweating, and loss of appetite are typically mild and may subside in a few days or weeks. Let your doctor know right away if you experience more severe side effects such as chest pain, skin rash, vomiting, anxiety, diarrhea, aggression, or confusion. Negative Side Effects of Antidepressants Withdrawal Symptoms All SSRIs, including Zoloft, carry a risk for a collection of withdrawal symptoms known as SSRI discontinuation syndrome. Common symptoms include odd electrical sensations known as brain jolts or brain zaps, dizziness, and headaches. Although the syndrome is not generally considered dangerous, the symptoms can be distressing, so do not lower your dose or suddenly stop taking Zoloft without your doctors approval. Everything You Need to Know About Antidepressant Withdrawal