About Zoloft

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Zoloft.

Zoloft is one of a group of pharmaceutical products called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It is a prescription drug produced by Pfizer that was introduced in 1991. The main use of Zoloft is to treat depression in adults. However, it can also be used to treat obsessive compulsive, anxiety, panic and premenstrual dysphoric disorders as well as post traumatic stress syndrome. Zoloft has been approved by the FDA for treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder in children. It has not been approved for treatment of depression in children

The main active ingredient in Zoloft is Sertraline Hydrochloride. Sertaline's function is to block the uptake of serotonin into human platelets which increases the number of serotonin molecules in synaptic gaps. The result of this action is a therapeutic effect that alleviates depression symptoms. The unique ability of Sertaline to affect dopamine transmission, which plays an important role in behavior and thought processes, has been linked to its favorable influence on cognitive function.

The effectiveness of Zoloft is similar to that of tricyclic antidepressants, but side effects are fewer and less pronounced. It shares the same common side effects as other medicines in its group. These side effects include nausea, diarrhea, some sexual side effects and insomnia. Women who become pregnant while taking Zoloft should contact their doctors, as sertaline may cause an increase in the rate of lung problems in newborns. Increased thoughts of suicide may occur when one first begins taking Zoloft, especially if the consumer is under 24 years old. Therefore, it is important that a doctor see you for regular visits during the first 12 weeks of treatment. Do not use Zoloft in combination with a pimozide or MAO inhibitor as severe or sometimes fatal reactions can occur.

What is Sertraline?

Sertraline is the generic form of Zoloft and can be purchased as a cheaper alternative to save money on your medication. The same ingredients are used in the manufacturing of the brand name version of this drug as in Sertraline.