What it is used for
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders (including generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
How it works
Sertraline increases the amount of serotonin, a chemical messenger, available in the brain by slowing its reabsorption into nerve cells. Over several weeks this is thought to help improve mood, reduce anxiety and ease obsessive thoughts.
How it is taken
Usually available as tablets and as an oral liquid/concentrate. It is taken by mouth, normally once a day, and benefits build gradually over a few weeks rather than immediately. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the dispensing label; never change or stop the dose on your own, as stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal effects.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Diarrhoea
- Trouble sleeping or drowsiness
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Reduced appetite
- Sexual difficulties (reduced desire, delayed orgasm)
- Increased sweating
- Feeling restless or shaky early on
Serious effects — get help
- New or worsening thoughts of suicide or self-harm, especially when starting or changing dose (seek urgent help)
- Signs of serotonin syndrome: agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness or twitching
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, blood in vomit or stools
- Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing)
- Seizures
- Signs of low sodium: confusion, severe weakness, unsteadiness
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other medicines that raise serotonin (other antidepressants, triptans for migraine, tramadol, St John's Wort)
- MAOI antidepressants (must not be combined)
- Blood thinners and anti-clotting medicines (higher bleeding risk)
- NSAID painkillers and aspirin (higher bleeding risk)
- Some heart-rhythm medicines (risk of QT prolongation)
- Alcohol (can worsen drowsiness)
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Use with caution if you have liver problems, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, bleeding disorders or a history of mania
- People under 25 may need closer monitoring for mood changes
- Do not stop abruptly; your clinician will advise on tapering
- Tell every prescriber and pharmacist you take it before starting any new medicine