Patient handout
Sertraline (Zoloft)
You have been prescribed sertraline. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Sertraline is an SSRI, a type of antidepressant. It is used for depression, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. It works by increasing serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate mood and worry. It is not habit-forming.
How to take it
- Take it once a day, at the same time each day, with or without food. Taking it with food can ease nausea.
- Morning is usual. If it makes you sleepy, take it at night; if it keeps you awake, take it in the morning.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is close. Do not double up.
- Your dose may be increased after a few weeks. This is normal and planned.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: side effects, if any, show up first. Mood usually has not changed yet. Some people feel more keyed up for a few days.
- Week 2 to 4: sleep, energy, and worry often begin to improve.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose. If little has changed by then, the dose or the medication can be adjusted.
- Plan to stay on it for at least six to twelve months after you feel well, to prevent relapse.
Common side effects
Most are mild and fade within one to two weeks: nausea, loose stools, headache, dry mouth, sweating, trouble sleeping or sleepiness, and jitteriness. Sexual side effects such as lower desire or delayed orgasm can last and are worth mentioning, since there are ways to address them. Weight change over the long term is usually small.
Call the office the same day if
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself, especially in the first weeks or after a dose change (this is uncommon but important, particularly under age 25)
- Unusual restlessness, racing thoughts, little need for sleep, or feeling abnormally energetic
- Fever with agitation, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or confusion, which can be a reaction called serotonin syndrome
- Unusual bruising or bleeding, especially if you also take ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or a blood thinner
- A rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Do not stop abruptly
Stopping sertraline suddenly can cause dizziness, nausea, irritability, flu-like feelings, and electric-shock sensations. These are not dangerous but are unpleasant. When it is time to stop, we lower the dose gradually together.
Good to know
- Alcohol can worsen depression and side effects. Keep it light while starting.
- Tell any other prescriber, dentist, or pharmacist that you take sertraline. Check before adding tramadol, triptans for migraine, St. John's wort, or other antidepressants.
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us. Sertraline is one of the better-studied options and is often continued.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.