Sertraline important information

Sertraline is a prescription medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is commonly prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (depression), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). As with all prescription medications, sertraline may not be appropriate for everyone. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information.

Before using sertraline, what should I tell my doctor?

All medical conditions you have or have had, especially:

• • Bipolar disorder or a history of mania/hypomania
  • Seizures or epilepsy
  • Liver disease (sertraline is processed by the liver; dose adjustments may be needed)
  • Bleeding problems or easy bruising
  • Low sodium (hyponatremia), especially if you are older or take diuretics (“water pills”)
  • Glaucoma (especially narrow-angle glaucoma)
  • Heart rhythm problems
• All medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including:
• • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter drugs
  • Vitamins and supplements
  • Blood thinners or drugs that increase bleeding risk (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen/naproxen)
  • Certain migraine medications (triptans), stimulants, or opioid pain medications
• Any allergies or prior adverse reactions to sertraline or other SSRIs
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding status
• • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Any history of suicidal thoughts, self-harm, worsening depression, severe anxiety/agitation, or significant mood changes.
• Alcohol or recreational drug use

What are some of the side effects of this drug?

Some side effects are common and often mild, especially when starting sertraline or changing the dose. These may include:

• Upset stomach or indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleepiness
• Increased sweating
• Tremor or feeling jittery/restless
• Sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm)
• Appetite or weight changes

Many side effects improve as your body adjusts. If side effects persist, become severe, or interfere with daily functioning, contact your healthcare provider.

What are side effects I should call my doctor about right away?

Seek urgent medical attention or contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or new/worsening depression
• New or worsening anxiety, agitation, panic, irritability, aggression, or impulsivity
• Mania/hypomania symptoms, such as:
• • Unusually elevated or irritable mood
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts, risky behavior, or unusually increased activity/talking
• Severe allergic reactions, such as:
• • Rash or hives
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising, black/tarry stools, coughing/vomiting blood
• Severe headache, vision changes, or eye pain
• Severe dizziness or fainting, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat
• Symptoms of low sodium, such as headache, confusion, weakness, severe fatigue, unsteadiness, or seizures
• Serotonin syndrome symptoms, such as:

• • Fever, sweating, shivering
  • Confusion, agitation
  • Rapid heart rate, blood pressure changes
  • Muscle stiffness, twitching, tremor, loss of coordination
  • Diarrhea

These symptoms may indicate serious or life-threatening reactions and require prompt evaluation.

Important safety information

• Suicidality risk: Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults, particularly early in treatment or after dose changes. Monitoring is important.
• Do not stop abruptly: Stopping sertraline suddenly may cause discontinuation symptoms (e.g., dizziness, nausea, irritability, insomnia, “electric shock” sensations). Tapering should be supervised by a clinician.
• Bleeding risk: Sertraline may increase bleeding risk, especially when combined with NSAIDs (ibuprofen/naproxen), aspirin, warfarin, or other anticoagulants/antiplatelet agents.
• Serotonin syndrome risk: Combining sertraline with other serotonergic medications or supplements can increase risk.
• Alcohol and impairment: Alcohol may worsen side effects. Use caution with driving or hazardous activities until you know how sertraline affects you.
• Liver considerations: People with liver impairment may require lower doses or closer monitoring.

Do not take sertraline if you

• Are allergic to sertraline or any ingredient in the medication
• Are taking (or have taken within the last 14 days) a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, unless specifically directed and monitored by a clinician (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• Are taking pimozide (a medication that can cause serious heart rhythm problems when combined with sertraline)
• Have been told by a licensed healthcare professional that you should not take SSRIs

Important Notice


This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your licensed healthcare provider. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.