What are the most common side effects of sertraline. How long do sertraline side effects typically last. Can sertraline cause sexual dysfunction. What are the rare but serious side effects of sertraline to be aware of. How can patients manage sertraline side effects effectively.

Understanding Sertraline: An Overview of the Popular SSRI

Sertraline, commonly known by its brand name Zoloft, is a widely prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication. Approved by the FDA in the 1990s, it has become a cornerstone in the treatment of various mental health disorders. Millions of people worldwide rely on sertraline to manage conditions such as major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder (SAD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

While sertraline is generally considered safe and effective, it’s crucial for patients and healthcare providers to be aware of potential side effects. Most side effects are mild and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some individuals may experience more persistent or severe reactions.

Common Side Effects of Sertraline: What to Expect

When starting sertraline treatment, patients may experience a range of common side effects. These typically appear within the first few weeks of treatment and often diminish over time. Here are some of the most frequently reported side effects:

Fatigue and Tiredness

Many patients report feeling fatigued or drowsy when beginning sertraline treatment. This side effect can be particularly challenging for those already struggling with depression-related fatigue. The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that feeling low in energy is very common during the initial weeks of taking sertraline.

Is fatigue from sertraline permanent? In most cases, no. As the body adjusts to the medication, energy levels typically stabilize. However, if fatigue persists beyond a month, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

Sexual Side Effects

Sexual dysfunction is one of the most common and often distressing side effects of SSRIs, including sertraline. These effects can manifest in various ways:

• Decreased libido
• Difficulty achieving orgasm
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Delayed ejaculation in men

How prevalent are sexual side effects with sertraline? Studies suggest that between 40% and 65% of individuals taking SSRIs experience some form of sexual side effect. However, it’s worth noting that sertraline has been found to have a lower likelihood of affecting sexual function compared to some other SSRIs.

Sleep Disturbances

Sertraline can significantly impact sleep patterns, causing:

• Insomnia
• Frequent night awakenings
• Daytime drowsiness

A 2017 review of research literature found that the prevalence of insomnia attributed to SSRI treatment was 17%, compared to 9% in those taking a placebo. These sleep disturbances are typically most pronounced in the short term and often improve as treatment continues.

Managing Common Sertraline Side Effects

While side effects can be challenging, there are several strategies patients can employ to manage them effectively:

1. Give it time: Many side effects diminish as the body adjusts to the medication.
2. Adjust dosage timing: Taking sertraline in the morning may help reduce sleep disturbances.
3. Communicate with healthcare providers: Persistent side effects may be managed through dosage adjustments or medication changes.
4. Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep hygiene can help mitigate some side effects.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects of Sertraline

While rare, sertraline can cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin levels in the body. Symptoms may include:

• Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Rapid heart rate
• Excessive sweating
• Fever
• Seizures

How common is serotonin syndrome with sertraline? While exact figures are difficult to determine due to underreporting, a 2013 study estimated that serotonin syndrome occurs in approximately 0.09% to 0.4% of patients taking SSRIs.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to sertraline, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:

• Skin rash or hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Allergic reactions to sertraline are rare, but they can be serious when they occur. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they suspect an allergic reaction.

Sertraline and Pregnancy: Weighing the Risks and Benefits

The use of sertraline during pregnancy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While some studies suggest potential risks associated with SSRI use during pregnancy, untreated depression can also pose significant risks to both mother and child.

What are the potential risks of taking sertraline during pregnancy? Some studies have suggested a slightly increased risk of certain birth defects, particularly when SSRIs are taken during the first trimester. However, the absolute risk remains low, and many healthcare providers consider the benefits of treating depression during pregnancy to outweigh the potential risks in many cases.

Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should discuss the risks and benefits of sertraline use with their healthcare provider. In some cases, alternative treatments or adjustments to medication regimens may be recommended.

Long-Term Effects of Sertraline: What We Know

While sertraline has been in use for decades, research on its long-term effects is ongoing. Some areas of interest include:

Bone Health

Some studies have suggested a potential link between long-term SSRI use and decreased bone density, particularly in older adults. However, the relationship is not fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the extent of this effect and its clinical significance.

Cognitive Function

The impact of long-term sertraline use on cognitive function is an area of ongoing research. While some studies have suggested potential cognitive benefits in certain populations, others have raised questions about potential negative effects.

Do SSRIs like sertraline affect memory? The evidence is mixed. Some studies have found improvements in memory and cognitive function in depressed patients treated with SSRIs, while others have reported potential negative effects on certain aspects of cognition. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term cognitive effects of sertraline.

Discontinuing Sertraline: Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms

When discontinuing sertraline, some patients may experience withdrawal symptoms, also known as discontinuation syndrome. These symptoms can include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Irritability
• Sensory disturbances (e.g., electric shock sensations)
• Sleep disturbances

How common are withdrawal symptoms when stopping sertraline? The exact prevalence is difficult to determine, but studies suggest that up to 20% of patients may experience some form of discontinuation syndrome when stopping SSRIs.

To minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms, patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before discontinuing sertraline. Gradual tapering of the dosage under medical supervision is typically recommended.

Sertraline Interactions: Medications and Substances to Avoid

Sertraline can interact with various medications and substances, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. Some important interactions to be aware of include:

Other Medications Affecting Serotonin

Combining sertraline with other medications that increase serotonin levels can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. These may include:

• Other antidepressants, particularly MAOIs
• Certain pain medications
• Some migraine medications
• Certain supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort)

Blood Thinners

Sertraline may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners like warfarin. Close monitoring of blood clotting times may be necessary for patients on both medications.

Alcohol

While not strictly contraindicated, alcohol consumption while taking sertraline is generally not recommended. Alcohol can worsen depression symptoms and may increase the risk of certain side effects.

What are the risks of drinking alcohol while taking sertraline? Potential risks include increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, and worsening of depression symptoms. Additionally, alcohol may interfere with the effectiveness of sertraline in treating depression or anxiety.

Optimizing Sertraline Treatment: Tips for Patients

To maximize the benefits of sertraline treatment while minimizing side effects, consider the following tips:

1. Be patient: It may take several weeks to experience the full benefits of sertraline.
2. Take as prescribed: Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood levels of the medication.
3. Communicate openly with your healthcare provider: Report any side effects or concerns promptly.
4. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of changes in your mood, energy levels, and any side effects you experience.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep habits can complement the effects of sertraline.
6. Avoid self-adjusting your dosage: Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

By following these guidelines and working closely with healthcare providers, patients can optimize their sertraline treatment and manage potential side effects effectively.

The Future of Sertraline Research: Emerging Insights and Potential Applications

As sertraline continues to be widely prescribed, ongoing research aims to further our understanding of its mechanisms, effects, and potential new applications. Some areas of current interest include:

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Researchers are exploring genetic markers and other factors that may help predict an individual’s response to sertraline. This could potentially lead to more tailored treatment approaches, minimizing side effects and improving outcomes.

Novel Therapeutic Applications

While primarily used for depression and anxiety disorders, sertraline is being studied for potential efficacy in other conditions, such as:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Certain types of chronic pain
• Cognitive decline in aging populations

Can sertraline be effective for conditions other than depression and anxiety? Emerging research suggests potential benefits in certain off-label uses, but more studies are needed to establish efficacy and safety for these applications.

Long-Term Outcomes

As sertraline has now been in use for several decades, researchers are increasingly able to study its long-term effects on various aspects of health and well-being. This includes examining potential impacts on:

• Cardiovascular health
• Cognitive function in long-term users
• Overall mortality rates in treated populations

These ongoing studies will help healthcare providers and patients make more informed decisions about long-term sertraline use.

Sertraline in the Context of Overall Mental Health Treatment

While sertraline can be an effective tool in managing depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, it’s important to view it as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. Other key components of mental health care may include:

Psychotherapy

Many patients benefit from combining sertraline with various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy. This combination can often lead to better outcomes than medication alone.

Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly complement the effects of sertraline. These may include:

• Regular exercise
• Healthy sleep patterns
• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., mindfulness, meditation)
• Balanced nutrition

Social Support

Building and maintaining strong social connections can play a crucial role in mental health recovery and maintenance. Support groups, family therapy, or simply fostering close relationships can be valuable adjuncts to sertraline treatment.

How does sertraline fit into a comprehensive mental health treatment plan? While sertraline can be a powerful tool in managing symptoms, it’s most effective when combined with other therapeutic approaches and lifestyle changes tailored to the individual’s needs.

Navigating the Healthcare System: Advocacy for Sertraline Patients

Patients taking sertraline may face various challenges within the healthcare system. Being an informed and proactive patient can help ensure optimal care. Consider the following strategies:

Regular Check-ins

Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to discuss your progress, any side effects, and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.

Medication Management

Keep track of your sertraline prescriptions and refills. Some patients find it helpful to use medication reminder apps or pill organizers to ensure consistent dosing.

Insurance Navigation

Understand your insurance coverage for sertraline and mental health services. If you encounter coverage issues, don’t hesitate to appeal or seek assistance from patient advocacy organizations.

Continuity of Care

If you need to switch healthcare providers, ensure a smooth transition by requesting that your medical records, including your sertraline treatment history, are transferred to your new provider.

How can patients effectively advocate for their mental health care needs? Being well-informed about your condition and treatment, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, and staying organized with medical records and appointments are key strategies for self-advocacy in mental health care.

By taking an active role in their treatment and working collaboratively with healthcare providers, patients can maximize the benefits of sertraline while effectively managing potential side effects and challenges.

Sertraline Side Effects: A Complete Guide

With tens of millions of prescriptions in the United States alone, sertraline is an FDA-approved and widely used SSRI medication on the market. 

Safe and effective, sertraline has been used since the 1990s by tens of millions of people every year without major side effects. 

Sertraline (often prescribed under the brand name Zoloft) is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of many different mental health disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder major depressive disorder (MDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). 

However, like all SSRIs, sertraline side effects do exist, and you should be aware of them before you consider treatment.

Most sertraline side effects occur in the first few weeks of treatment and tend to disappear over time. However, some can last for several months or occur at any time while using the medication.

Although rare, it’s possible to experience several more serious side effects if you use sertraline to treat depression, anxiety or any other condition.   

Below, we’ve listed the common and uncommon side effects of sertraline. We’ve also linked to relevant studies and other data to provide some more context on how common or uncommon these side effects really are.

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Most Common Side Effects of Sertraline

Sertraline belongs to a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. 

Like other SSRIs, it can cause a range of mild side effects that typically occur during the first few weeks of treatment. 

We’ve listed these common side effects below.

Fatigue and Tiredness

Fatigue and drowsiness are two of the most common side effects of sertraline (Zoloft), as well as several other SSRIs.

If you’re using sertraline to treat depression, fatigue and tiredness from the medication can also be compounded by the effects of depression on your mood.  

It’s very common to feel a little low in energy during the first few weeks of taking sertraline, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Dealing with fatigue and tiredness from sertraline can be a frustrating experience, but it usually passes. 

As the medication reaches a steady state in your body, you’ll generally start to notice a less pronounced effect on your energy levels before this side effect fades completely.

If you have persistent fatigue or drowsiness after starting sertraline that doesn’t disappear within one month, it’s best to contact your healthcare provider.

Sexual Side Effects

Sertraline and other SSRIs can cause a variety of sexual side effects, from difficulty achieving orgasm, to a decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

Sexual side effects are some of the most common side effects of sertraline and other commonly used SSRI medications.

According to a review of certain studies, between 40 percent and 65 percent of people who take SSRIs experience some side effects related to sexual desire and performance.

It’s worth noting the research did find that of the SSRIs, sertraline has one of the lower likelihoods of affecting sexual function.

These side effects can affect both men and women. In men, one of the most common side effects is a higher level of difficulty achieving orgasm and ejaculating. 

Some men also experience a lower general level of interest in sex after using SSRIs such as sertraline.

In women, the most common sexual side effect of sertraline and other SSRIs is a lower level of interest in sex.

Like many other sertraline effects, sexual side effects can often fade over time as your body gets used to the medication. 

If persistent, sexual side effects can be treated by adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication.

Sleep Disturbances

Insomnia and a general reduction in sleep quality are both common side effects of SSRIs and other antidepressants. 

People who use sertraline may find that they now have trouble sleeping, or find themselves waking up frequently throughout the night. Sertraline can also cause you to be more sleepy than usual.

While it doesn’t list the effects of sertraline specifically,a 2017 review of research literature notes that it’s common for antidepressants to affect sleep. 

This review found that the prevalence of insomnia attributed to treatment with SSRIs was 17 percent compared to nine percent taking placebo. 

Like many other SSRI side effects, the study states that these effects are most common in the short term.

There are several ways to deal with sleep disturbances from sertraline. The first is to wait it out, as this side effect tends to fade away as the medication reaches a steady-state in your body. 

It’s also possible to take sertraline in the morning to reduce its concentration by the time you sleep.

Finally, it’s important to avoid caffeine and other stimulants that could prevent you from falling asleep in a normal amount of time. 

Try to only consume coffee, caffeinated soda and energy drinks before noon to avoid them affecting you when it’s time to fall asleep.

Dizziness

It’s not uncommon to feel dizzy during the first few weeks of using sertraline. Like other common side effects, this is thought to be a result of your body adjusting to the medication. 

Dizziness is a short-term side effect of sertraline that usually doesn’t persist for longer than two to four weeks.

Interestingly, sertraline is linked to lower levels of dizziness in the long term in studies, indicating that it could help you feel less dizzy once the medication stabilizes in your body.

If you notice frequent dizziness or lightheadedness after using sertraline that lasts for more than four weeks, it’s important to contact your healthcare professional to discuss the potential of low blood pressure caused by your sertraline dose. 

This side effect, like most, may be managed by using a lower dose of the medication. However, if this side effect doesn’t get better after a few weeks, speak to your healthcare provider.

Weight Gain or Weight Loss

Sertraline and other SSRIs are associated with weight fluctuation, although not all people who take these medications will gain or lose weight.

Most of the weight gain caused by antidepressants is mild, with a 2017 study from Australia by BMJ Open finding that, on average, high-dosage antidepressant users gain 0.28kg (about 0.6lbs) per year.

According to a 2018 BMJ UK study, researchers concluded that antidepressants may contribute to a long-term increased risk of weight gain.

Another study by Nutrients found that antidepressant use is associated with a higher total calorie intake.

However, a known side effect of sertraline (discussed more in-depth below) is, in fact, loss of appetite. 

There’s also some research out there to suggest that — at least in the short term — sertraline may actually cause you to lose weight. Especially if you’re diabetic. 

In one smaller study from Primary Care Diabetes involving 33 patients with type 2 diabetes, for instance, researchers found at the end of the 12-week observation period a decrease in overall weight, body mass index and waist circumference, overall.  

If you’re concerned about weight gain or weight loss from sertraline, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider. 

Most of the time, you can avoid changes in your body mass and composition by monitoring your food intake and maintaining your pre-treatment eating habits while using sertraline.

Loss of Appetite

Sertraline could potentially cause you to have a reduced appetite.

Like other side effects of sertraline, this is usually temporary and should wear off after the first few weeks on the medication. 

The key to avoiding weight loss from sertraline is to talk to your healthcare provider and monitor your food intake. 

By staying consistent with your eating habits and activity level, it’s easier to maintain your body mass and composition while using sertraline or any other SSRI.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of sertraline.In comparative studies of sertraline and other SSRIs, about 14 percent of people who were prescribed sertraline at a typical dose experienced diarrhea compared to those on other SSRIs.

Like many other Zoloft side effects, diarrhea usually occurs in the first few weeks of treatment. 

Most of the time, diarrhea becomes less frequent and disappears completely as your body adjusts to the medication and your dosage of sertraline reaches a steady state.

If you have persistent diarrhea from sertraline, the best approach is to contact your healthcare provider. 

This side effect, like others, may often be managed by reducing your dosage of sertraline or switching to a different antidepressant, such as paroxetine or fluoxetine, which are both less likely to cause diarrhea.

Headaches

It’s possible that you may experience headaches after you start using sertraline, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. 

Like other common side effects, Zoloft headaches usually disappear after two to four weeks of use as the medication stabilizes in your body.  

The link between sertraline and headaches is a complicated one. 

While headaches have been reported to be a side effect of taking sertraline, according to Journal of the Association of Physicians of India (in a study of 50 people), sertraline has been shown to be effective in treating chronic tension-type headaches.

While some painkillers can interact with sertraline, it’s safe to take Tylenol® if you experience headaches after starting sertraline. 

Be aware that Tylenol may reduce the effectiveness of sertraline in your body.  It is important to discuss what medications you’re taking with your healthcare provider before you start on sertraline.

If you have persistent or severe headaches from sertraline that don’t improve over time, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider. 

Simple changes to your sertraline usage such as taking your medication at a different time of day or reducing your dosage can help to limit or get rid of headaches.

Dry Mouth

Finally, dry mouth is a common side effect of sertraline and other antidepressants. While there’s no clear reason for this, researchers believe that the effects of sertraline and other SSRIs on the brain can also affect your gastrointestinal system.

According to the FDA, 14 percent of people prescribed antidepressants experience some level of dry mouth compared to 9% in placebo.  

Although SSRIs like sertraline are less likely to cause dry mouth than other antidepressants  (in one study published in Oral Diseases: Leading in Oral, Maxillofacial, Head and Neck Medicine, it affected about 14 percent of people), it’s still fairly common.

There are several ways to treat dry mouth from sertraline. Like other side effects, dry mouth is often temporary, meaning it should go away on its own over the course of several weeks as the medication reaches a steady state in your body.

It’s also possible to reduce the severity of dry mouth by avoiding caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, any spicy foods and other substances that can cause dehydration. 

Sugar-free gums can also help to stimulate saliva production and keep your mouth and throat properly hydrated. 

It is also recommended that you avoid using mouthwash products that contain alcohol as they can make the problem worse.

Finally, if you have persistent dry mouth from sertraline, you should talk to your healthcare provider.  

Just like many other side effects of sertraline, dry mouth can often be avoided by adjusting your dosage or switching to a different SSRI medication.

Serious Side Effects of Sertraline

People who use sertraline may not experience any side effects, or may only experience a few of the mild side effects listed above. 

However, it’s also possible for sertraline to cause a variety of potentially serious adverse effects in some users.

Below, we’ve listed some of the serious potential side effects of sertraline. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible for medical assistance.

Fainting and Extreme Dizziness

According to the FDA, fainting is not frequently reported, but is still a potential side effect of sertraline. 

A small percentage of people who use sertraline may also experience severe dizziness and lightheadedness. 

If you feel faint, weak or severely dizzy, or feel differences in your heart rate after taking sertraline, you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Chest Pain

A small number of people who use sertraline have reported severe chest pain after taking the medication.

If you experience severe or unusual chest pain after taking sertraline, you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

It’s important to point out that this side effect is very rare. Overall, sertraline is a safe and effective drug that’s widely used successfully, including by people with certain heart problems that make other SSRIs unsuitable.

Persistent Bleeding

Sertraline is one of several SSRIs that may increase the chance of bleeding.

This means that if you injure yourself in a way that results in bleeding while using sertraline, your body might have difficulty forming a normal blood clot.

Clotting issues from sertraline use can potentially occur as a result of taking sertraline together with other medications, such as blood thinners. 

If you use other medications that could affect your clotting ability, it’s essential that you inform your healthcare provider before considering sertraline.

Priapism

According to a study published in Federal Practitioner, Sertraline and other antidepressants have the potential to cause priapism, a condition that can result in a long-lasting, painful erection that is not associated with sexual stimulation. 

Priapism can cause the penis to stay erect for hours at a time, resulting in severe discomfort and potentially causing damage to penile tissue.

Priapism is a rare side effect of sertraline and other SSRIs. If you experience a persistent, painful erection after taking sertraline or any other antidepressant, you should seek immediate medical assistance.

Suicidal Thoughts

Sertraline and several other widely used antidepressants can increase your risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts. 

The risk of suicidal thoughts appears to be the highest in young adults under the age of 25 who take antidepressants.

If you experience suicidal thoughts after you start using sertraline, it’s important to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

Allergic Reaction 

Like any other medication, it is important to seek immediate medical advice if you experience an allergic reaction to sertraline. 

Warning signs of allergic reaction include hives, swollen face, sore throat, and anaphylaxis. 

Learn More About Sertraline

While many of the side effects listed above can look alarming, it’s worth remembering that most people who use sertraline either experience no side effects at all, or light, transient side effects that disappear as they become accustomed to the medication. 

You should not take sertraline if you have glaucoma, history of heart problems, or are breastfeeding.

For the vast majority of users, it’s a safe, effective and important medication that provides real benefits.

However, in addition to the side effects listed above, sertraline can potentially have drug interactions with a wide range of other medications and substances, like combining alcohol and sertraline, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, or even St. John’s Wort.

Use of sertraline with other SSRIs could lead to an increased risk of a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Our Sertraline 101 Guide goes into more detail on sertraline interactions. 

Be sure to discuss all drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter medicine, with your healthcare professional before taking sertraline.

Do not stop taking sertraline without seeking medical advice. 

Abruptly ending sertraline before your next dose could lead to serious withdrawal symptoms, including eye pain, nausea, headaches, irritability, nightmares, or suicidal thoughts.

Read 25 more facts about sertraline here.

Side Effects of Antidepressants You Don’t Expect

Side Effects of Antidepressants You Don’t ExpectSkip to main content< Back to the article list

She thought she was prepared for all the side effects of antidepressants, but there was one big one no one told her about

I’m a 20-something female who lives in Somerville, MA, with a cute husband, two cute cats, and anxiety and depression (which is not so cute). I started taking medication a little over a year ago to treat my mental health issues, and I wanted to share my story about a side effect of my medication that I wasn’t expecting.

I’m doing this because mental health still seems stigmatized in the U.S, and I believe there should be more dialogue around possible treatments. My hope is that this story will help others be a bit more prepared before they start treating their mental health issues with medication.

I Was Prepared For Some Side Effects, but Not Dry Mouth

After talking to my doctor about my anxiety and depression, and agreeing to try a low dose of a certain antidepressant, I did some research into the side effects that may come with it. After a few days of poking around the internet, I thought I was prepared for just about any and every random side effect out there, from trouble sleeping to weight gain. But the one side effect I didn’t expect was dry mouth.

Dealing With Dry Mouth

Within the first week or so of managing my medication, the dry mouth symptoms became apparent. Swallowing — something we all do about a million times a day — felt like work. It got so bad that I would sometimes have trouble speaking because it felt like my tongue was stuck to my throat. I would also wake up in the middle of the night insanely thirsty, and could almost taste how bad my breath was. It got to the point where I didn’t even want to talk to my husband first thing in the morning because I was afraid of how bad my breath smelled.

I tried treating this issue on my own by drinking tons of water, chewing gum to increase the saliva in my mouth, and sadly avoiding my favorite snack, pretzels with peanut butter.

Relieving Dry Mouth

Unlike some of the other side effects I ended up experiencing, I realized that there’s actually something out there designed to specifically relieve dry mouth symptoms. Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse is a gentle, alcohol-free rinse that soothes and moisturizes your mouth for up to four hours , and Biotene Moisturizing Spray helps relieve symptoms on-the-go. Finding relief for this side effect meant I had one less thing to worry about, which was extremely helpful during an otherwise stressful period of my life.

Whether you’re someone who has just started taking antidepressants, or who has been taking them for awhile, I highly recommend talking to your doctor about any side effect you might be experiencing. You never know: there might be a product out there that helps treat it, and chances are that there’s a whole group of people who are experiencing the same thing.

Related articles

Association of dry mouth with prescription drugs | Dry mouth

Prescription drugs and dry mouth

Over the past 20 years, most Americans believe that prescription drugs improve people’s quality of life (73 percent of those surveyed), as well as their quality of life relatives and friends (63 percent). More than half of the adult population is now taking prescription drugs, and one in five people take four or more drugs a day. 1.

Dry mouth or xerostomia is a condition that occurs when a person’s salivary glands do not function properly, resulting in insufficient secretion of saliva into the mouth. There are three pairs of major salivary glands in the mouth, and prescription drugs can affect each of them. If you are taking prescription drugs, please tell your doctor and dentist.

Which drugs cause dry mouth?
More than 500 different drugs cause dry mouth, and if a patient takes several different drugs, the likelihood of dry mouth increases. 2, 3 The following classes of prescription drugs affect the salivary glands:

• Antihistamines: Drugs in this category affect saliva production. They include: diphenhydramine, claritin, zyrtec, etc.
• Antidepressants: People taking antidepressants will also experience dry mouth. These types of drugs affect the amount of saliva produced. These include Zoloft, Flexeril, and Amitriptyline.
• Antiemetics: These are drugs given to prevent nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and for motion sickness (eg anzemet, domperidone).
• Antihypertensive drugs: Antihypertensive drugs (eg, salbutamol aerosol, Norvasc, and Prinivil) are taken to control blood pressure.
• Antiparkinsonian drugs: Drugs in this category are prescribed to relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and other forms of parkinsonism (eg, levodopa, cyclodol).
• Antispasmodics: These drugs are used to treat and relieve colic and spasms of the stomach, small intestine, colon, and bladder (eg dicyclomine).
• Antipsychotics: Drugs used for psychiatric disorders, anxiety and depression (eg Zoloft, Lexapro).
• Sedatives: These are drugs that induce sedation, reduce agitation and irritability, and relieve anxiety (for example: amytal, valium, lunesta).

If you are taking any of these drugs, talk to your doctor and dentist about ways to manage dry mouth. There are prescription and over-the-counter medications to help relieve dry mouth. Just check with your doctor or dentist.

Bibliography:
1 USA Today/Kaiser Family Foundation/Harvard School of Public Health, The Public on Prescription Drugs and Pharmaceutical Companies, January 3-23,2008.
2 Porter SR, Scully C, Hegarty AM: An Update of the etiology and management of xerostomia, Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 97:28-46, 2004.
3 Sreebny LM, Schwartz SS: A reference guide to drugs and dry mouth, ed 2, Gerodontology 14: 33-47, 1997.

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Zoloft Antidepressant in the Physician’s Practice

Choice of Antidepressant. Patient Needs Focused Topic Topic

12/29/2016

Antidepressant Zoloft in the practice of a therapist The work of a doctor of any profile has its own characteristics. The specifics of the work of a general practitioner is determined by a wide range of his diagnostic and therapeutic activities, sometimes without clear boundaries. In the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system, the therapist interacts (collaborates, and sometimes competes) with a cardiologist, in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system – with a gastroenterologist, in the treatment of kidney diseases – with a nephrologist and urologist, etc. Therapists along with traumatologists and rheumatologists often treat patients with osteochondrosis, arthrosis and arthritis. It is the therapist who can be the main doctor for patients with several concomitant diseases, since he has to put into practice the principle “to treat not the disease, but the patient” and sometimes draw up the final comprehensive treatment plan, taking into account the appointments of narrow specialists.

The therapist is rightly called the “primary link” of the health care system and the “family doctor”, since he has to deal with the issues of primary diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Many patients, regardless of the identified pathology, remain under his supervision, and the treatment of the rest (referring to narrow specialists) can subsequently be carried out with his participation. And of course, for each patient, the therapist should ideally be a personal psychotherapist.
In his work, the therapist often encounters certain manifestations of depression, which are detected in many patients with a therapeutic profile. According to statistics, 80% of all patients with depressive disorders first turn to a therapist, which is due to both objective and subjective reasons.
Among the objective reasons, one can single out the mutual influence of the pathogenetic mechanisms of mental disorders and organic diseases (including internal diseases).

On the one hand, depression can create conditions for the formation of organic diseases, aggravate and change their course. This is mediated through a variety of neuroendocrine and immunological mechanisms, regarding the interaction of which there is no consensus today. However, it is believed that they are realized through significant violations of autonomic functions, which leads to the formation of “organ neuroses”. Pathological enhancement of sympathoadrenal influences may be accompanied by the formation of persistent arterial hypertension, hyperthyroidism, reduced glucose tolerance, and an increase in the content of inflammatory enzymes in the synovial fluid.

Parasympathetic pathological influences contribute to the formation of bronchospastic syndrome and hypersecretion of gastric juice.
On the other hand, the pathogenesis of long-term chronic somatic diseases involves the formation of certain psychological changes that create prerequisites for the development of depression. The so-called psychosomatic disorders include not only organ neuroses (syndrome of “irritable stomach”, “irritable intestines”, “irritated bladder” and other “irritated” organs, functional coprostasis, esophageal achalasia), but also angina attacks that occur as a conditioned reflex , bronchospasm, etc. Such disorders are often accompanied by phobias (fear of gas incontinence, inability to use the toilet) and psychoreactive states (neurotic syndromes, affective and pathocharacterological reactions).

Thus, one group of patients with depression at the therapist’s appointment is made up of “dispensary” patients who have new symptoms, and the other is new patients who turned to the therapist with somatic manifestations of depression.
It should be noted that in these difficult conditions, the timely diagnosis of depressive disorders largely depends on the qualifications of the doctor: the appearance of somatic symptoms in a patient with depression is often mistakenly perceived as vegetative manifestations of psychogenic disorders, and the addition of symptoms of depression to the clinic of a somatic disease is considered as astheno-vegetative or ” hypochondriacal “syndrome (as part of the clinic of the underlying disease).

The diagnostic principle of searching for one disease that explains the fullness of the symptoms in a particular patient (correct in most cases) often plays a cruel joke with the doctor when diagnosing depression. In addition, the primary appearance of depressive symptoms or its addition to somatic pathology significantly reduces the patient’s adherence to treatment.
As for the subjective reasons for such a high frequency of patients with depression visiting a therapist, it can be noted that a significant part of patients, even suspecting the nature of their condition, under the influence of subjective factors, prefers to seek help not from a psychiatrist (some fear publicity about the fact of observation by a psychiatrist and related social restrictions, others the alleged negative side effects of psychotropic drugs).

The specificity of the medical activity of a general practitioner also determines the features of the choice of drugs. As their own observations show, general practitioners prefer to start treatment with broad-spectrum drugs with a proven therapeutic effect, without pronounced side effects and adverse interactions with other drugs, which have a positive effect on the most common comorbidities, which have a convenient mode of administration – then There are first-line drugs that are safe and effective in most patients. Thus, in the treatment of arterial hypertension, we often begin therapy with the use of modern calcium antagonists (amlodipine) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (quinapril, lisinopril). When choosing antibiotic therapy, we often start treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), in particular sertraline (Zoloft, Phizer), occupy such a place in the arsenal of a general practitioner for the treatment of depressive conditions.

As a characteristic representative of the SSRI group, Zoloft has all the main advantages of this group of antidepressants. From other drugs used in the treatment of depression, SSRIs differ in fewer and less severe side effects. They do not increase the effect of alcohol and tranquilizers when taken at the same time. The drugs of this group, unlike sulpiride, do not affect the level of prolactin.
If you look at the list of side effects of SSRIs, then it becomes uncomfortable (for both the doctor and the patient): anxiety, sleep disturbances, vision, gait, digestive disorders, sexual function and endocrine system organs are possible. However, in our clinical practice, only parasympathicotonic effects of SSRIs were encountered: sweating, hypotension and dizziness, dry mouth, and the frequency of these effects was rather low.

Indications for the appointment of Zoloft are depression (including accompanied by a sense of anxiety) with or without a history of mania; obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) in adults and children; panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia; post-traumatic stress disorder; social phobia (social anxiety disorder). With a satisfactory result of treatment, continuation of sertraline therapy is an effective means of preventing recurrence of the initial episode of depression and its development in the future; recurrence of the initial episode of obsessive-compulsive disorder; panic disorder, initial episode of post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia.

Sertraline does not cause drug dependence; does not have the stimulating and disturbing effects characteristic of D-amphetamine, or the sedative effect and psychomotor disturbances characteristic of alprazolam; does not have a stimulating, sedative or anticholinergic effect, and also does not show a cardiotoxic effect in the experiment.
A wide range of indications and significant therapeutic possibilities, high and predictable efficacy, ease of administration (reception and control), an insignificant frequency of side effects determine the choice of Zoloft as a treatment for depression, as well as concomitant psychogenic and autonomic disorders in general therapeutic practice.