What are the main uses of sertraline. How should sertraline be taken for optimal effectiveness. What are the common and severe side effects of sertraline. How does sertraline interact with other medications and substances. What precautions should be taken when using sertraline. How effective is sertraline in treating various conditions. What are the potential risks and benefits of taking sertraline.

Understanding Sertraline: Mechanism of Action and Classification

Sertraline, commonly known by its brand name Zoloft, is a widely prescribed antidepressant medication. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). But how exactly does sertraline work in the brain?

Sertraline functions by increasing the levels of serotonin, a crucial neurotransmitter, in the brain. Serotonin plays a vital role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other important functions. By inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, sertraline allows more of this neurotransmitter to remain active in the brain, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.

Other medications in the SSRI class include:

• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
• Vilazodone (Viibryd)

While these medications share a similar mechanism of action, each has its unique properties and potential effects on individuals.

Primary Uses of Sertraline: From Depression to Anxiety Disorders

Sertraline has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating a range of mental health conditions. What are the primary uses of this versatile medication?

The main indication for sertraline is the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, its applications extend beyond depression, encompassing several anxiety-related conditions:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

For PMDD, sertraline can help alleviate symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe sertraline for off-label uses, including the treatment of certain types of sexual dysfunction or headaches.

Dosage and Administration: Optimizing Sertraline Treatment

Proper dosage and administration are crucial for maximizing the benefits of sertraline while minimizing potential side effects. How should patients take sertraline for optimal effectiveness?

Sertraline is available in two forms: oral tablets and liquid. The typical dosing schedule involves taking the medication once daily, either in the morning or evening. For PMDD, the dosing regimen may vary, with some patients taking it daily while others use it only on specific days of their menstrual cycle.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides the following dosage information for sertraline:

• 25 milligram (mg) tablets
• 50 mg tablets
• 100 mg tablets
• 20 milligrams per liter of liquid

When administering sertraline, patients should adhere to these general guidelines:

1. Take the medication at approximately the same time each day
2. Sertraline can be taken with or without food
3. Follow all instructions provided by the healthcare provider and on the prescription packaging
4. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, but do not double the next dose
5. Only take the prescribed amount
6. When using the liquid form, dilute it in a beverage before consumption

For the liquid formulation, the National Library of Medicine recommends mixing the medication with 4 ounces (half a cup) of water, lemon soda, orange juice, lemonade, or ginger ale. The mixture should be consumed immediately after preparation.

Side Effects: Recognizing Common and Severe Reactions

As with any medication, sertraline can cause side effects. These can vary from person to person in terms of severity and duration. What are the most common side effects associated with sertraline use?

Common side effects of sertraline include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Sexual dysfunction

In many cases, these side effects subside after the first week or two of treatment. However, sexual dysfunction may persist throughout the course of treatment.

While less common, severe side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. These may include:

• Serotonin syndrome
• Low sodium levels
• Eye problems, such as angle-closure glaucoma
• Increased risk of bleeding, especially when combined with blood thinners or NSAIDs

In children and adolescents, sertraline use may lead to weight loss and decreased appetite. Pediatricians typically monitor weight closely in young patients taking this medication.

Drug Interactions: Understanding Potential Risks

Sertraline can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Which drugs and substances should be avoided or used with caution when taking sertraline?

Some medications and substances that may interact with sertraline include:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other antidepressants, particularly other SSRIs or SNRIs
• Pimozide
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Certain migraine medications (triptans)
• St. John’s Wort
• Alcohol

It’s crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and substances they are using to prevent potentially harmful interactions. Healthcare providers may need to adjust dosages or consider alternative treatments in some cases.

Special Precautions: Ensuring Safe Use of Sertraline

Certain individuals may need to exercise extra caution when using sertraline or may not be suitable candidates for this medication. What precautions should be taken when considering sertraline treatment?

Special considerations for sertraline use include:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Sertraline may pose risks to developing fetuses and infants. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.
• Elderly patients: Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of sertraline and may require lower doses.
• Liver or kidney problems: Patients with impaired liver or kidney function may need dosage adjustments.
• History of bipolar disorder: Sertraline may trigger manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.
• Seizure disorders: Sertraline may lower the seizure threshold in some individuals.
• Bleeding disorders: Due to its potential to increase bleeding risk, caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners.

Healthcare providers should thoroughly evaluate a patient’s medical history and current health status before prescribing sertraline.

Effectiveness of Sertraline: Evaluating Treatment Outcomes

The effectiveness of sertraline can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual factors. How effective is sertraline in managing various mental health conditions?

Research has shown that sertraline can be effective in treating:

• Major Depressive Disorder: Studies indicate that sertraline is as effective as other antidepressants in treating depression, with response rates ranging from 50-60%.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Sertraline has demonstrated efficacy in reducing OCD symptoms, with some studies showing improvement in up to 40-60% of patients.
• Panic Disorder: Clinical trials have shown that sertraline can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Sertraline has been found to improve symptoms of social anxiety in many patients, enhancing their ability to engage in social situations.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Studies have shown that sertraline can help reduce symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and hyperarousal.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Sertraline has been found to be effective in alleviating both the physical and emotional symptoms associated with PMDD.

It’s important to note that the full therapeutic effects of sertraline may take several weeks to manifest. Patients should maintain open communication with their healthcare provider to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Long-Term Use and Discontinuation: Managing Sertraline Treatment

For many individuals, long-term use of sertraline may be necessary to maintain symptom relief. However, discontinuation of the medication requires careful consideration and management. How should long-term use and discontinuation of sertraline be approached?

Long-term use of sertraline:

• Many patients may need to continue sertraline treatment for months or even years to prevent relapse of symptoms.
• Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor ongoing effectiveness and potential side effects.
• Periodic reassessment of the need for continued treatment should be conducted.

Discontinuation of sertraline:

• Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, and flu-like symptoms.
• Gradual tapering of the medication under medical supervision is recommended to minimize withdrawal effects.
• The tapering process may take several weeks or months, depending on the individual and the duration of treatment.
• Patients should be monitored closely during the discontinuation process for any signs of symptom recurrence.

It’s crucial for patients to consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their sertraline regimen, including attempts to discontinue the medication.

Sertraline in Special Populations: Considerations for Specific Groups

The use of sertraline in certain populations requires special attention and careful evaluation. How does sertraline treatment differ for specific groups such as children, adolescents, and the elderly?

Children and adolescents:

• Sertraline is FDA-approved for treating OCD in children aged 6-17 years.
• Use for other conditions in this age group is considered off-label and should be carefully evaluated.
• Close monitoring for side effects, particularly changes in behavior or suicidal thoughts, is essential.
• Dosing may need to be adjusted based on weight and response to treatment.

Elderly patients:

• Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of sertraline and may require lower initial doses.
• Potential drug interactions should be carefully considered, as many older adults take multiple medications.
• Monitoring for side effects such as hyponatremia (low sodium levels) is particularly important in this population.

Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals:

• The risks and benefits of sertraline use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully weighed.
• Some studies suggest a slight increase in certain birth defects with first-trimester exposure to sertraline.
• Sertraline is excreted in breast milk, and potential effects on nursing infants should be considered.
• Close collaboration between mental health providers and obstetricians is crucial for managing sertraline treatment in this population.

Healthcare providers must tailor sertraline treatment to the specific needs and circumstances of each individual, taking into account age, medical history, and potential risks and benefits.

Uses, how to take, side effects, and interactions

Sertraline (Zoloft) belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Doctors use it to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and other conditions.

Sertraline is sold under the brand name Zoloft, and there are also generic versions. It is available at most pharmacies.

Healthcare professionals can prescribe over 30 medications intended to help with depression and improve a person’s quality of life.

Sertraline is sold under the brand name Zoloft, and there are also generic versions. It is available at most pharmacies.

Share on PinterestSertraline increases the amount of serotonin that is available in the brain.
Image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Zoloft_50_mg_(CN).JPG, 2012

Sertraline has the same mechanism of action as other SSRIs. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin that is available in the brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, that is involved in regulating many elements of a person’s daily life, including mood, sleep, rewards, learning, and memory.

Research has linked depression with low levels of serotonin.

Sertraline increases the amount of serotonin present in the brain, helping to reduce chemical imbalances and improve a person’s overall mood.

Other SSRIs include:

• escitalopram (Lexapro)
• citalopram (Celexa)
• fluvoxamine (Luvox, Luvox CR)
• fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, Symbyax)
• paroxetine (Paxil, Paxil CR, Pexeva)
• vilazodone (Viibryd)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) note that people use sertraline to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

The main use of sertraline is to treat depression, though healthcare providers also prescribe this drug to help treat other conditions, including:

• obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD
• panic disorder
• social anxiety disorder
• post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD
• premenstrual dysphoric disorder — to reduce bloating, mood swings, irritability, and breast tenderness

A doctor may prescribe sertraline to treat other issues, such as sexual dysfunction or headaches. Anyone interested in the range of uses should consult a doctor.

Sertraline is available as either an oral tablet or a liquid.

Typically, a person takes a dose in the morning or evening, once a day. People using it to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder may take it every day or only on select days of the month.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, sertraline comes in the following doses:

• 25 milligram (mg) tablets
• 50 mg tablets
• 100 mg tablets
• 20 milligrams per liter of liquid

A person taking sertraline should follow these general guidelines:

• Take it at about the same time every day.
• Take with or without food.
• Follow all instructions on the prescription packaging and from the doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember to, but do not double the dose the next day.
• Take only the amount that the healthcare provider has prescribed.

When using the liquid, dilute it in a drink. According to the National Library of Medicine, a person should mix 4 ounces (half a cup) of medication with one of the following beverages, then drink it immediately:

• water
• lemon soda
• orange juice
• lemonade
• ginger ale

However, the right dosage will vary, based on a person’s age and weight.

Typically, a healthcare provider will prescribe a low dose and increase the amount over time, but no more than once per week. It can take several weeks before a person feels any effects of sertraline.

People should not stop taking the drug without speaking to a doctor, even if they are feeling better. This may mean that the drug is working, and missing a dose can result in a return of symptoms.

Side effects can vary from person to person. Talk to a healthcare provider if severe side effects occur or if any side effects do not go away.

Common side effects of sertraline include:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• headache
• dry mouth
• sweating
• nervousness
• feeling restless
• fatigue
• trouble sleeping
• sexual dysfunction

These side effects usually go away after the first week or two. However, sexual dysfunction often does not reduce over time.

The package insert for Zoloft states that it and other antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in people aged 24 years or younger.

Pay close attention to any new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, and speak to a healthcare provider about these changes.

Other severe side effects of sertraline may include:

• serotonin syndrome
• low sodium levels
• eye problems such as angle-closure glaucoma
• increased risk of bleeding, especially when a person is also taking blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

In children, sertraline can cause a loss of weight and appetite. The pediatrician will likely monitor their weight.

Share on PinterestIf a person stops taking sertraline abruptly they may experience sleep problems, tinnitus, or irritability.

Whenever possible, a person should come off sertraline gradually. Stopping the dosage suddenly can cause the following side effects:

• tinnitus
• irritability
• agitation
• anxiety
• nausea
• dizziness
• tremors
• confusion
• sleep problems
• seizures

Sertraline contains a warning for children, teens, and adults under 24 years of age. It states that sertraline may increase a person’s suicidal thoughts or actions.

Parents and caregivers should make doctors aware of any family history of suicide. It is also important to recognize possible signs of suicidal thoughts or actions.

Adults can also experience suicidal thoughts in the first month or two of taking sertraline, as well as when the doctor increases the dosage.

Look carefully for signs such as:

• agitation
• irritability
• acting without thinking
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• new or worsening anxiety
• new or worsening depression
• aggressive behavior
• severe restlessness
• frenzied or unusual excitement
• extreme worry
• panic attacks
• thoughts of self-harm
• planning or trying to commit suicide

In addition, it is important to pay close attention to side effects. If any are severe or do not go away, talk to a doctor.

People using sertraline may test positive on certain drug tests. Before taking a drug test, ask a healthcare professional for advice.

When first taking sertraline, avoid using heavy machinery or driving immediately after a dose, until it becomes clear how the body will react. Some people continue to experience dizziness, tiredness, or other effects that can impair judgment after doses.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking sertraline.

Certain medications can interact with sertraline. An interaction can cause unwanted side effects or cause medications to be more or less potent than intended.

People should not take any monoamine oxidase inhibitors — another type of antidepressant, commonly called MAOIs — while taking sertraline or up to 2 weeks after stopping.

Taking sertraline along with other drugs that affect serotonin can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. This syndrome involves a range of symptoms, including agitation and loss of muscle coordination.

Some drugs that affect serotonin include:

• migraine medications called triptans
• certain other antidepressants
• some pain medications, such as tramadol
• an antibiotic called linezolid

People should not take pimozide while taking sertraline. Pimozide is an antipsychotic that helps treat Tourette’s syndrome.

Also, use caution when taking medications such as ibuprofen, warfarin, and aspirin. Sertraline can increase the risk of bleeding associated with these medications.

Sertraline is available in brand and generic forms. Most insurance plans and Medicare cover the cost of the generic version of sertraline. In this case, a person will pay only the associated medication cost of their insurance plan.

People who do not have insurance may be able to use coupons to reduce the cost of sertraline.

Share on PinterestA person should discuss their medication history with their doctor before starting sertraline.

Doctors generally consider sertraline to be the preferred medication for the treatment of depression.

There is some evidence that sertraline is preferable to other antidepressants. For example, a medical review determined, based on almost 60 studies, that sertraline was more effective than other antidepressants. However, the researchers acknowledged that the majority of the studies were of low quality.

Each individual is different, and what works well for one person may not for another. Before taking sertraline, a person should discuss their medication history and family history with the doctor, who should describe the potential side effects of the drug. For some people, another option is more appropriate.

Sertraline is an antidepressant that can help treat depression and other mood disorders.

Some people find that taking sertraline helps them manage their symptoms. Others can experience side effects that are not manageable. If this happens, see a healthcare provider who can recommend alternatives, before stopping the medication.

Like other drugs, sertraline can cause mild to severe side effects. As with any treatment, discuss the benefits and potential side effects with a doctor before taking the medication.

Uses, how to take, side effects, and interactions

Sertraline (Zoloft) belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Doctors use it to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and other conditions.

Sertraline is sold under the brand name Zoloft, and there are also generic versions. It is available at most pharmacies.

Healthcare professionals can prescribe over 30 medications intended to help with depression and improve a person’s quality of life.

Sertraline is sold under the brand name Zoloft, and there are also generic versions. It is available at most pharmacies.

Share on PinterestSertraline increases the amount of serotonin that is available in the brain.
Image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Zoloft_50_mg_(CN).JPG, 2012

Sertraline has the same mechanism of action as other SSRIs. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin that is available in the brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, that is involved in regulating many elements of a person’s daily life, including mood, sleep, rewards, learning, and memory.

Research has linked depression with low levels of serotonin.

Sertraline increases the amount of serotonin present in the brain, helping to reduce chemical imbalances and improve a person’s overall mood.

Other SSRIs include:

• escitalopram (Lexapro)
• citalopram (Celexa)
• fluvoxamine (Luvox, Luvox CR)
• fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, Symbyax)
• paroxetine (Paxil, Paxil CR, Pexeva)
• vilazodone (Viibryd)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) note that people use sertraline to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

The main use of sertraline is to treat depression, though healthcare providers also prescribe this drug to help treat other conditions, including:

• obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD
• panic disorder
• social anxiety disorder
• post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD
• premenstrual dysphoric disorder — to reduce bloating, mood swings, irritability, and breast tenderness

A doctor may prescribe sertraline to treat other issues, such as sexual dysfunction or headaches. Anyone interested in the range of uses should consult a doctor.

Sertraline is available as either an oral tablet or a liquid.

Typically, a person takes a dose in the morning or evening, once a day. People using it to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder may take it every day or only on select days of the month.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, sertraline comes in the following doses:

• 25 milligram (mg) tablets
• 50 mg tablets
• 100 mg tablets
• 20 milligrams per liter of liquid

A person taking sertraline should follow these general guidelines:

• Take it at about the same time every day.
• Take with or without food.
• Follow all instructions on the prescription packaging and from the doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember to, but do not double the dose the next day.
• Take only the amount that the healthcare provider has prescribed.

When using the liquid, dilute it in a drink. According to the National Library of Medicine, a person should mix 4 ounces (half a cup) of medication with one of the following beverages, then drink it immediately:

• water
• lemon soda
• orange juice
• lemonade
• ginger ale

However, the right dosage will vary, based on a person’s age and weight.

Typically, a healthcare provider will prescribe a low dose and increase the amount over time, but no more than once per week. It can take several weeks before a person feels any effects of sertraline.

People should not stop taking the drug without speaking to a doctor, even if they are feeling better. This may mean that the drug is working, and missing a dose can result in a return of symptoms.

Side effects can vary from person to person. Talk to a healthcare provider if severe side effects occur or if any side effects do not go away.

Common side effects of sertraline include:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• headache
• dry mouth
• sweating
• nervousness
• feeling restless
• fatigue
• trouble sleeping
• sexual dysfunction

These side effects usually go away after the first week or two. However, sexual dysfunction often does not reduce over time.

The package insert for Zoloft states that it and other antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in people aged 24 years or younger.

Pay close attention to any new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, and speak to a healthcare provider about these changes.

Other severe side effects of sertraline may include:

• serotonin syndrome
• low sodium levels
• eye problems such as angle-closure glaucoma
• increased risk of bleeding, especially when a person is also taking blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

In children, sertraline can cause a loss of weight and appetite. The pediatrician will likely monitor their weight.

Share on PinterestIf a person stops taking sertraline abruptly they may experience sleep problems, tinnitus, or irritability.

Whenever possible, a person should come off sertraline gradually. Stopping the dosage suddenly can cause the following side effects:

• tinnitus
• irritability
• agitation
• anxiety
• nausea
• dizziness
• tremors
• confusion
• sleep problems
• seizures

Sertraline contains a warning for children, teens, and adults under 24 years of age. It states that sertraline may increase a person’s suicidal thoughts or actions.

Parents and caregivers should make doctors aware of any family history of suicide. It is also important to recognize possible signs of suicidal thoughts or actions.

Adults can also experience suicidal thoughts in the first month or two of taking sertraline, as well as when the doctor increases the dosage.

Look carefully for signs such as:

• agitation
• irritability
• acting without thinking
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• new or worsening anxiety
• new or worsening depression
• aggressive behavior
• severe restlessness
• frenzied or unusual excitement
• extreme worry
• panic attacks
• thoughts of self-harm
• planning or trying to commit suicide

In addition, it is important to pay close attention to side effects. If any are severe or do not go away, talk to a doctor.

People using sertraline may test positive on certain drug tests. Before taking a drug test, ask a healthcare professional for advice.

When first taking sertraline, avoid using heavy machinery or driving immediately after a dose, until it becomes clear how the body will react. Some people continue to experience dizziness, tiredness, or other effects that can impair judgment after doses.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking sertraline.

Certain medications can interact with sertraline. An interaction can cause unwanted side effects or cause medications to be more or less potent than intended.

People should not take any monoamine oxidase inhibitors — another type of antidepressant, commonly called MAOIs — while taking sertraline or up to 2 weeks after stopping.

Taking sertraline along with other drugs that affect serotonin can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. This syndrome involves a range of symptoms, including agitation and loss of muscle coordination.

Some drugs that affect serotonin include:

• migraine medications called triptans
• certain other antidepressants
• some pain medications, such as tramadol
• an antibiotic called linezolid

People should not take pimozide while taking sertraline. Pimozide is an antipsychotic that helps treat Tourette’s syndrome.

Also, use caution when taking medications such as ibuprofen, warfarin, and aspirin. Sertraline can increase the risk of bleeding associated with these medications.

Sertraline is available in brand and generic forms. Most insurance plans and Medicare cover the cost of the generic version of sertraline. In this case, a person will pay only the associated medication cost of their insurance plan.

People who do not have insurance may be able to use coupons to reduce the cost of sertraline.

Share on PinterestA person should discuss their medication history with their doctor before starting sertraline.

Doctors generally consider sertraline to be the preferred medication for the treatment of depression.

There is some evidence that sertraline is preferable to other antidepressants. For example, a medical review determined, based on almost 60 studies, that sertraline was more effective than other antidepressants. However, the researchers acknowledged that the majority of the studies were of low quality.

Each individual is different, and what works well for one person may not for another. Before taking sertraline, a person should discuss their medication history and family history with the doctor, who should describe the potential side effects of the drug. For some people, another option is more appropriate.

Sertraline is an antidepressant that can help treat depression and other mood disorders.

Some people find that taking sertraline helps them manage their symptoms. Others can experience side effects that are not manageable. If this happens, see a healthcare provider who can recommend alternatives, before stopping the medication.

Like other drugs, sertraline can cause mild to severe side effects. As with any treatment, discuss the benefits and potential side effects with a doctor before taking the medication.

Pharmacies reported problems with the supply of a popular antidepressant – RBC

Large pharmacy chains reported interruptions in the supply of an antidepressant with the active ingredient sertraline, which is produced by Viatris under the Zoloft brand. The drug is one of the three most popular antidepressants

Photo: Artem Geodakyan / TASS

Russian pharmacy chains faced an interruption in the supply of Zoloft antidepressant (active ingredient sertraline) produced by the American pharmaceutical company Viatirs.

Problems with the supply of RBC were reported in the pharmacy chains Rigla and 36.6, which also includes Gorzdrav. Now there is a small amount of Zoloft in the 36.6 network, but there have been no deliveries since October 2021, the representative of 36.6 explained.

adv.rbc.ru

“There is a shortage of a specific brand – Zoloft. At our request, we have not yet received information about the prospects for the supply of the drug, ”Natalya Burdina, commercial director of the Rigla pharmacy chain, told RBC, noting that the pharmacy has stocks of other drugs with the active ingredient sertraline.

adv.rbc.ru

RBC sent inquiries to other large pharmacy chains.

According to the analytical company DSM Group, Zoloft did not show sales drops in the retail segment during 2021. In November-December, pharmacies sold a total of almost twice as many Zoloft packages as in 2020 – more than 170 thousand packages against 96 thousand. The drug, according to analysts, was in third place in 2021 in terms of popularity among consumers in the segment of antidepressants

“The numbers that we see in retail sales are the remains of the drug, the last packages. The deficit began in the regions where the highest consumption was noted – Moscow and Central Russia, but soon it will reach distant regions, ”DSM Group CEO Sergey Shulyak told RBC.

RBC sent inquiries to the distributing companies of Katren and Pharmkomplekt with a request to comment on drug interruptions. A representative of the Pulse company, which also distributes the drug, confirmed that Zoloft is in short supply – the manufacturer does not give a clear delivery date, but it could be the end of January. “The company admits that drug quotas for deliveries to Russia may be reduced due to a surge in depressive disorders around the world against the backdrop of a pandemic. Since there is a shortage in other groups of antidepressants, ”RBC was told at the Pulse company.

The active substance sertraline is included in the list of vital and essential drugs (VED), however, according to DSM Group, only a small part of the drug is involved in the state segment – less than 10% of the total. “Therefore, it would be wrong to say that the entire volume went there,” Shulyak concluded.

What do doctors say about Zoloft? V.P. Serbsky Alexander Fedorovich. “It has analogues, but if, as a result of the selection, the specialist came to the conclusion that this particular drug is effective, then the replacement always involves time and quite a lot of complexity for the patient,” he said.

Viatris Russia confirmed to RBC that there were problems with the supply of Zoloft. “Recently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant increase in demand for Zoloft in various countries. As a result, there are delays in the supply of the drug, including to Russia,” the company told RBC. They added that the resumption of supplies is expected no earlier than March 2022.

Roszdravnadzor RBC reported that from January 2021 to January 2022, more than 847 thousand packages of Zoloft in five dosage forms entered the civil circulation. The agency has not received letters [from the manufacturer] to stop supplies, but in April 2021 there was a letter about delays. Also, over the same period in Russia, more than 1.4 million drugs with the active substance sertraline were introduced into the civil circulation.

In March last year, there were also interruptions in the supply of Zoloft, Pharmvestnik reported. Then it ended in the pharmacies of Moscow, Omsk, Nizhny Novgorod and others.

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Alphabetical searchAmlodipine – KRKAmprilanAsentraAsigliaAsiglia MetAtifinAtorisBilobilBravadinVazilipValsakorVamlosetVizarsinVizarsin Ku-tabDabiksomDalneva and Co-DalnevaDexamethasoneDilaxaDuloxentaZalastaZilaxeraZiltZulbeksIndapamid – KRKAKventiaksKordipin LoristaLortenzaMacropenMaruxaMoflaxiaNaklofenNalgesin FORTENiperthenNolicinNolpazaOrsotenPectrolPerineva and Co-PerinevaRiolmaRisperidonRoxatenz-amloRoxatenz-indahRoxeraRoxera PlusSlipzonSulfasalazineTelmistaUltopFromilidFromilid unoCyprinolElyceaEmanera EnapEtoriaxSearch by area of ​​use
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Sleep disordersPainkillersOsteoarthritisWeight loss and controlAngina pectorisMemory and concentration improvementAtrial fibrillation Chronic heart failureSchizophrenia, bipolar disorderErectile dysfunctionSearch by MHHAmlodipineAmlodipine + valsartan + hydrochlorothiazidedamlodipine + indapamide + perindoprilamlodipine + losartanamlodipine + perindoprilamlodipine + perindopril + rosuvastatinAmlodipine + telmisartanAmlodipine + valsartan Aripiprazole AtorvastatinBisoprololValsartanHydrochlorothiazideGinkgo biloba leaf extractDabigatran etexilate DexamethasoneDiclofenac sodiumDoxylamine hydrosuccinateDuloxetineIvabradineIsosorbide-5- Indapamidindapamide mononitrate + perindopril + rosuvastatin Quetiapine fumarate Clarithromycin Clopidogrel Losartan potassium Memantine Metformin hydrochloride Midecamycin Moxifloxacin Naproxen sodium Nifedipine Norfloxacin Olanzapine DonRozuvastatinRozuvastatin + EzetimibeSertraline HydrochlorideSildenafilSimvastatinSitagliptinSulfasalazineTelmisartanTerbinafine HydrochlorideCelecoxibCiprofloxacinEsomeprazoleEnalaprilEplerenoneEscitalopramEtoricoxib

There are contraindications. Before use, read the instructions.

Search alphabetically Bilobil® 40 mg, capsules No. 60Bilobil® Forte 80 mg, capsules No. 20, No. 60Gerbion® ivy, 35 mg, lozengesGerbion® primrose syrupGerbion® ivy syrupGerbion® plantain syrupDuovit for women *Duovit for men *Duovit dragee No. 40Calcinova , fruit tablets, chewableKontrDiar 200mg/5ml 90mlKontrDiar, capsules, 200 mgNalgezin® tab. 275 mg No. 10, No. 20 Orsoten® Slim, capsules, 60 mg Panatus forte, syrup Panatus, tab. 20 mg Panatus® forte, film-coated tablets, 50 mg Panzinorm 20000 Pikovit D No. 30 Pikovit syrup 150 ml Pikovit tab. p / o No. 30, No. 60 Pikovit Forte No. 30 Rutacid SeptaNasal® for adults SeptaNasal® for children covered film shell, 120 mg No. 28, No. 56, No. 112 Ultop®, capsules, 10 mg and 40 mg Flebaven®, tab. 1000 mg No. 32Flebaven®, tab. 500 mg №32, №64Search by area of ​​useHeaviness and pain in the legsSore throatVitamins and mineralsGastrointestinal tract diseasesCoughAcid-dependent diseasesRhinitisPainkillersAcute hemorrhoidsAntidiarrheal drugsWeight loss and controlAnalgesics-antispasmodicsImprove memory and concentrationFatigue of the legsSearch by MHHBenzalkonium chlorideVis Muta tripotassium dicitrate Hydrotalcid dexpanthenol + xylometazoline Diosmin + hesperidin Drotaverine hydrochloride Naproxen sodium Nifuroxazide Omeprazole Orlistat

There are contraindications. Before use, read the instructions.

Alphabetical SearchAmatibAtaxaGyraxaDechinelDoxatibKalfoset KatobeviteCladaxaMarfloxinMilprazonOtoxolanRicarfaSelafortSolvimin SeleniumToltaroxTrisulfoneTuloxinFiprist ComboFiprist Spot On Fiprist SprayFlimabendFloronEgocinEcocid EnroxilEnroxil MaxSearch by ApplicationAntibacterials Anthelmintic drugsAnticoccidia drugsAntimicrobial drugsVitamins and mineralsDisinfectantsInsecticidesAcaricidal drugsNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsOtitis media

There are contraindications. Before use, read the instructions.

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Krka in Russia

The international pharmaceutical company Krka is one of the leading manufacturers of generics in the world, Krka products are represented in more than 70 countries, including Russia.