Sertraline
Information about Sertraline
Sertraline uses
Sertraline is used in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorder, phobia, post traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How sertraline works
Sertraline works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain. This improves mood and physical symptoms in depression and relieves symptoms of panic and obsessive disorders.
Common side effects of sertraline
Nausea, Diarrhoea, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Headache, Fatigue.
Available Medicine for Sertraline
Expert advice for Sertraline
- It can take 2-3 weeks for Sertraline to start working.
- Do not stop treatment suddenly as this may cause a stomach upset, flu-like withdrawal symptoms and sleep disturbance.
- Avoid consuming alcohol when taking the Sertraline, as it may cause excessive drowsiness and calmness.
- If your doctor asks you to stop Sertraline, you should reduce the dose slowly over 4 weeks.
- The addiction/dependence potential of Sertraline is very less.
- You may develop anxiety during initiation of therapy.
Frequently asked questions for Sertraline
Sertraline
Q. Is sertraline addictive?
Sertraline is not addictive. However, sudden discontinuation or decrease in dose of sertraline may cause effects like dizziness, numbness, sleep disturbances, agitation or anxiety, headaches, nausea, vomiting and shaking. Patients should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its use and discontinuation
Q. Is sertraline a mono amine oxidase inhibitor/steroid?
No, sertraline belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which alter the levels of a chemical called serotonin in the brain and help improve depression
Q. Is sertraline safe?
Sertraline is safe, if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor