Zoloft, or Sertraline, is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) or antidepressant used to treat a variety of mental health conditions including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It also treats anxiety by slowing down the reabsorption of serotonin. Sertraline is the generic form of the brand-name drug Zoloft. It works in the brain by raising serotonin levels, which affects mood.

A Zoloft prescription or medication is taken by mouth as directed by your doctor. It’s typically taken once daily in the morning or evening. Dosage is determined and based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. If you miss a dose then take it as soon as you can but never take two doses at one time. There have been instances when taking Zoloft can lead to small weight gain.

What is Zoloft Prescribed For?

Zoloft has been approved for and is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. It can also be used in adults and children and teens aged 6-17 for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is an antidepressant that’s prescribed for and treats a variety of mental health disorders. A doctor might prescribe Zoloft if you describe symptoms of having a depressed mood, a loss of interest in activities, low energy, and feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. Never stop taking it without input and following the direction given from your doctor.

How Does Zoloft Work?

Zoloft is part of a group of medicines called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). How they are thought to work is by preventing the reuptake of serotonin by nerves. What this does is lead to an increase in serotonin concentration in the nerve synapse, which is the space between two nerves. It ends up leaving more of the chemical, serotonin, available. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. This neurotransmitter helps regular memory, learning, and mood. Experts believe that Zoloft (sertraline) is effective because of its ability to rebalance chemicals, such as serotonin, in the brain. Compared to other antidepressants, its activity against other neurotransmitters is less potent.

What Are The Side Effects of Zoloft?

There are side effects to know about and be aware of before taking and while taking Zoloft. For starters, it may cause drowsiness. However, there’s less potential for drowsiness than many other antidepressants. In addition, you might experience headaches, nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

The most common side effects that come with taking Zoloft are loss of appetite, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, loose stool, increased sweating, tremors, or sexual problems. You can always contact your doctor or online pharmacy if you have questions about your side effects. Some patients might also notice a small weight gain in some cases.