Zoloft | sertraline

Medication Class: Selective Serotonin Inhibitor
Manufacturer: Pfizer
Approval Date: December, 1991

What is Zoloft and how does it work

Zoloft is an antidepressant that works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters (serotonin) in the brain. Therefore, it is classified as a selective serotonin inhibitor (SSRI).

What is Zoloft used for

• Major Depression in adults
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) (Adult or children)
• Panic disorder
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Social anxiety disorder

How effective is Zoloft

• Antidepressant effect is maintained for 44 weeks after 8 weeks of initial of treatment.
• Effect on symptoms of PTSD is maintained for 28 weeks after 24 weeks of initial treatment.
• Effect on symptoms of social anxiety disorder is maintained for 24 weeks following 20 weeks of treatment.

What are interesting facts about Zoloft

• It is a selective serotonin inhibitor (SSRI)
• Administered once daily
• It is used for treating several conditions

What is the dosage of Zoloft and how is it administered

Zoloft is administered once daily by mouth in the morning or evening.

• Depression and OCD—50-200 mg daily
• Panic disorder, PTSD, Social anxiety disorder— 25-200 mg daily
• PMDD—50-150 mg daily
• OCD (children)—25-200 mg daily

What are the side effects of Zoloft

Common: Dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, sleepiness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, ejaculation failure, agitation, weight loss, reduced libido.

Serious: Suicide, manic episodes, seizures, serotonin syndrome, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, abnormal bleeding, low sodium, withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, tiredness, dizziness, headache, difficulty sleeping, confusion)

Zoloft drug interactions

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine)
• Linezolid (Zyvox)
• St. John's Wort
• warfarin
• Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (e.g., Motrin, Aleve)
• Sumatriptan and similar medications
• Cimetidine
• Valium (diazepam)
• Pimozide (Orap)

What is the cost of Zoloft

$3.27-$11.19 per tablet for brand name.

How to obtain prescription assistance for Zoloft

For prescription assistance for Zoloft visit Pfizer Prescription Program.

References: Zoloft FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide

This medication summary is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider.