Sertraline is used in cases of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, posttraumatic stress disorder and social phobia. It is also used in the treatment of the premenstrual syndrome and, sometimes, headaches and disorders associated with the sexual sphere.
What is Sertraline?
Sertraline belongs to the class of drugs known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, also known as "good mood hormone."
How should Sertraline be taken?
Sertraline is taken orally in the form of tablets or liquid solution. The dosage is generally one dose per day, taken in the morning or evening. The treatment of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can, however, be predicted only on certain days of the month. The doctor may prescribe a low initial dose and then gradually increase in case of need.
Side effects associated with Sertraline
Sertraline can cause angle-closure glaucoma. Among other possible adverse effects are included:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Gas or bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Weight changes
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Excessive fatigue
- Headache
- Pain, burning or tingling in the hands or feet
- Nervousness
- Uncontrollable tremors
- Sore throat
- Problems in the sexual sphere
- Excessive sweating
In the event that these symptoms are severe, or do not improve, you should contact your doctor.
It is recommended to immediately consult a doctor if taking Sertraline triggers the following:
- Convulsions
- Fever, sweating, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, and severe muscle stiffness
- Bleeding or bruising
- Auditory or visual hallucinations
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Sertraline
Sertraline may take several weeks to manifest its full effect. In any case, the treatment should not be stopped without first talking to your doctor.
While undergoing therapy with Sertraline you should not take Disulfiram.
Moreover, Sertraline can reduce the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery.
Before taking the drug it is recommended to inform your doctor if:
- You have any allergy to the active substance, to any other medication or latex
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, especially MAO inhibitors (even if intake was stopped in the previous two weeks), disulfiram, anticoagulants, antidepressants, aspirin or other NSAIDs, cimetidine, diazepam, digoxin, linezolid , lithium, drugs for anxiety, Parkinson's disease or irregular heartbeat, drugs, anticonvulsants, methylene blue, anti-diabetes, migraine medications, sedatives, sibutramine, sleeping pills and tranquilizers
- You suffer (or have suffered) from seizures, kidney or heart disease
- You are recovering from a recent heart attack
- You drink more than two servings of alcohol per day
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
