| | Medication Information:
Sertraline (generic) ~ Zoloft (brand) Classification: Antidepressant (SSRI type)
Common Usage: Major depressive disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder;
panic disorder; bulimia nervosa; social phobia CommonMajor Side Effects: This drug is not to be discontinued suddenly
(without physician's guidance), as depression may return quickly and more
severely than when the drug was first started. The more common side
effects include: dry mouth, increased sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea,
diarrhea, upset stomach (eating before taking the drug may help prevent stomach
symptoms), sleeplessness, sexual dysfunction (more incidence in males than
females) and restlessness. Keep in mind that taking higher doses of the
drug may cause an increase in severity of some of the above-mentioned side
effects. Many times, however, these side effects lessen over longer
periods of therapy. This is not a complete list of all known or potential adverse
effects. Notify your prescriber or pharmacist of any symptoms that concern
you that have started since you began taking this medication, or if you have
changed the dose, or added or changed other medication. Interactions with Other Medications: Not to be taken with alcohol.
Some side effects may be come more severe with over-the-counter drugs, such as
decongestants and antihistamines. Dextromethorphan ("DM") found in
over-the-counter cough and cold preparations may also cause serotonin syndrome,
which in some cases may be life-threatening. Pain relievers such as
tramadol (Ultram), meperidine (Demerol) and codeine may have the same reaction
when mixed with Zoloft. Products or foods containing large amounts of
tryptophan are not recommended, and may cause similar severe reactions.
Cimetidine (Tagamet) may increase the amount of Zoloft in the system, causing an
increase in certain side effects. Bleeding times may be increased in
patients already taking warfarin (Coumadin). Patients switching from
Prozac, Paxil, Luvox or other antidepressants must do so cautiously under a
physician's care to prevent certain side effects from becoming critical.
Patients already taking certain antipsychotics or other types of antidepressants
in addition to Zoloft may have to have doses of these drugs adjusted to prevent
added side effects. This is not a complete list of all known or potential
drug interactions. To help prevent avoidable problems, always make sure
your pharmacist and all prescribers know all of the medications you are taking.
This includes over-the-counter drugs and any dietary or herbal supplements or
medications. CommonDosages: Starting dose is usually 25 mg to 50 mg per day and, if needed,
increased gradually at one-week intervals.. Maximum dose is 200
mg per day. Patients who are elderly or have kidney or liver problems
may require lower doses, or less frequent doses. As
with all antidepressants, it may take several weeks before the full effect is
apparent. This medication is usually taken in the morning as it usually
interferes with patients sleeping at night. Notify your prescriber or pharmacist if you
change your dose or discontinue this medication for any reason. Identification: Both tablet forms are film-coated, scored on one side
and capsule-shaped:
50 mg: Light blue, "Zoloft" on one side, and "50 mg" on
the other
100 mg: Light yellow, "Zoloft" on one side, and "100 mg" on the
other Storage: Store this medication at normal room temperature (59° F to 86°
F) in a tightly closed, light- and moisture-resistant container. If you
have difficulty opening child-resistant containers, your pharmacist can provide
a container that is easier to open. Keep the medication out of direct
sunlight and avoid storing it in a warm or humid area - such as the bathroom or
kitchen - to prevent deterioration. To prevent accidental poisoning, keep
all medications out of the reach of children. Do not take an expired
medication. Do not transfer medication from one container to another.
Carefully discard discontinued medication where children cannot find it. Edited by Stephen R.
Saklad, Pharm.D. ASERVICE OF…. Psychopharmacology Update
Note: These guidelines are for general information only.For more specific information, consult your physician orpharmacist. |
