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. 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).
Directions
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 efects
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.
Missed Dosage
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.
Zoloft
