Zoloft (Sertraline)

Do's

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully to reduce the risk of side effects of Zoloft. 
• Take a low dose initially and gradually increase it over time. 
• Take Zoloft once daily, either in the morning or evening. 
• Take Zoloft with or without food. 
• Take the 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg capsules with food. 
• Take the 150mg and 200mg capsules with or without food. 
• Swallow Zoloft capsules whole. 
• Take the drug every day of the month or for only the 2 weeks before your period until the start of your period, as per your healthcare provider’s instructions, if prescribed for premenstrual problems. 
• Wait for several months to feel the full benefit of Zoloft. 
• Take Zoloft regularly to experience its full benefits. 
• Dilute the oral solution of Zoloft with specific liquids, such as water, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice, and consume it immediately after mixing. 
• Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by the pharmacist before starting Zoloft and each time a refill is obtained. 
• Direct any questions about Zoloft to your healthcare provider. 
• Take Zoloft exactly as prescribed. 
• Discuss with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in the medication or dosage. 

Don'ts

• Don't stop taking Zoloft without consulting your healthcare provider. 
• Don't crush or chew Zoloft capsules. 

The dosage of Zoloft is based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. If the healthcare provider decides to discontinue the medication, they may reduce the dose gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Tiredness or sleepiness
• Trouble sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Reduced appetite
• Sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, lowered sex drive, and trouble reaching orgasm.

Serious Side Effects:

• Zoloft can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the first few months of treatment .
• Other serious side effects may include fatigue, sleepiness, weight gain, and more severe symptoms like severe nausea, sleep problems, and suicidal thoughts.

Not all people will experience these side effects. Speak with a healthcare provider about any concerning side effects. They can help a person wean off the drug, change medications, or develop ways to manage side effects.

People with depression or mental illness may have thoughts about suicide, especially when first starting a medicine to treat depression. Inform your healthcare provider right away if you experience any sudden changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts about suicide.

Stopping Zoloft may result in symptoms of sertraline withdrawal, also known as SSRI discontinuation syndrome. Consult with your healthcare provider before stopping this medication. If you and your healthcare provider decide it's best for you to stop Zoloft, they can provide you with a tapering strategy to minimize any withdrawal symptoms like irritability, increased anxiety, or flu-like symptoms.

Zoloft may increase the risk of seizures, angle-closure glaucoma, hyponatremia, and sexual dysfunction. Be aware of these potential risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and to help reduce any potential side effects. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

In children and adolescents, Zoloft may lead to symptoms such as abnormal increase in muscle movement or agitation, nose bleeds, urinary incontinence, aggressive reaction, possible slowed growth rate, and weight change. Height and weight should be monitored during treatment with Zoloft.

The information provided here is not exhaustive. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Zoloft.