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Zoloft® is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder. This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
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Zoloft®
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician,
pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be
construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe,
appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
Uses
Sertraline is used to treat depression, panic attacks,
obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD). This medication works by helping to
restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
Other Uses
This medication has also been used to treat a severe form of
premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder- PMDD)
and a sexual function problem in men (premature ejaculation).
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with or
without food; or as directed by your doctor. It is recommended
that you take your dosage at the same time each day, either in
the morning or in the evening. The dosage is based on your
medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to
continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel
well. Also, do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor. It may take up to 4 weeks before the
full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Side Effects
Nausea, headache, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth,
drowsiness, dizziness, or upset stomach may occur. If any of
these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side
effects occur: loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, unusual
or severe mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing,
unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor), decreased
interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
unlikely but serious side effects occur: vision changes,
changes in sexual ability, painful and/or prolonged erection.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely
but very serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular
heartbeat, chest pain, muscle pain, trouble swallowing,
ringing in in the ears, seizures. An allergic reaction to this
drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it
occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash,
itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver
problems, kidney disease, seizures, heart problems, any
allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution
engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or
using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised
when using this product in the elderly because they may be
more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication
should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug
passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the
infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not
recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with this product could result in
serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO
inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid,
moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline,
tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before or after treatment with
this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for
additional information. This drug is not recommended for use
with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine),
terfenadine, astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for
more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription and
nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other SSRI
antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine), nefazodone,
venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs (e.g.,
sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tramadol, tricyclic
antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline),
cimetidine, flecainide, propafenone, clozapine, trazodone,
lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners" (e.g.,
warfarin), any herbal/natural products (e.g., melatonin, St
John's wort, ayahuasca). Tell your doctor if you take any
drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep,
sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g.,
diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine),
psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as
chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine),
muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g.,
diphenhydramine). Report other drugs which affect the heart
rhythm (QTc prolongation), such as: dofetilide, pimozide,
sotalol, quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water
pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or
hydrochlorothiazide). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
details. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may
include: irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or
lightheadedness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is
near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to
catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and
30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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