Sertraline (sertraline)
My medication guide
Fairview Pharmacy. Call 601-544-4871.
My prescribed doseYour pharmacist or doctor fills this in.
Important warning
- Watch for new or worsening mood symptoms, especially after starting or changing the dose. Antidepressants carry a warning about suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults. Tell your prescriber promptly; immediate danger requires emergency help. Zoloft boxed warning
What is sertraline for?
- This SSRI treats depression and several other conditions, including OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and social anxiety. Your prescriber can explain your treatment goal.
Does it work right away?
- Full benefit can take several weeks. Keep follow-up visits and report how you feel; do not increase the dose yourself.
Can I take it with food?
- Tablets can be taken with or without food. Follow your prescribed schedule. Oral concentrate must be diluted using its specific instructions.
What if I miss a dose or want to stop?
- Take a missed dose when remembered unless the next is almost due; then skip it. Never double up. Talk to your prescriber before stopping, because a gradual reduction may prevent withdrawal symptoms. MedlinePlus
What side effects should I discuss?
- Nausea, diarrhea, changes in sleep and sexual side effects can occur. Tell your clinician if they are troublesome. Get urgent help for fever with confusion, agitation, muscle stiffness or a racing heartbeat, which can signal serotonin syndrome. Zoloft label, sections 5 and 6
What should my pharmacist check?
- Show all medicines and supplements, especially other antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, tramadol, St. John's wort, aspirin, NSAIDs and blood thinners. Check before starting a new product. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and any history of bipolar disorder need discussion with your prescriber. Zoloft label, sections 4, 5, 7 and 8
Ask a Fairview pharmacist
- Ask Fairview about your prescription. For urgent symptoms, contact your care team directly rather than waiting for a website reply. Prescription services are handled through the pharmacy; this page is education, not online prescribing.