The
following information is a summary about Zoloft.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Zoloft USES
Zoloft (Sertraline) is used to treat depression,
panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD),
and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Zoloft
has also been used to treat a severe form of premenstrual
syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder- PMDD)
and a sexual function problem in men (premature ejaculation).
Zoloft DIRECTIONS
Take Zoloft by mouth usually once daily with or without
food; or as directed by your doctor. It is recommended
that you take your dosage at the same time each day,
either in the morning or in the evening. The dosage
is based on your medical condition and response to
therapy. It is important to continue taking Zoloft
as prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not
stop taking Zoloft without consulting your doctor.
It may take up to 4 weeks before the full benefit
of Zoloft takes effect.
Zoloft SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea, headache, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry
mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, or upset stomach may
occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen,
notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these serious side effects occur: loss
of appetite, unusual weight loss, unusual or severe
mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing,
unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor),
decreased interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these unlikely but serious side effects
occur: vision changes, changes in sexual ability,
painful and/or prolonged erection. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very
serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat,
chest pain, muscle pain, trouble swallowing, ringing
in in the ears, seizures. An allergic reaction to
Zoloft is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention
if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Zoloft PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: liver problems, kidney disease, seizures, heart
problems, any allergies. Zoloft may make you dizzy
or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring
alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit
alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using
Zoloft in the elderly because they may be more sensitive
to the effects of the drug. This medication should
be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Zoloft passes into breast milk. Because of the potential
risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using Zoloft
is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Zoloft DRUG INTERACTIONS
Certain medications taken with Zoloft could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid
taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid,
linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine,
selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before
or after treatment with Zoloft. Consult your doctor
or pharmacist for additional information. Zoloft
is not recommended for use with: weight loss drugs
(e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), terfenadine, astemizole.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell
your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medication you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants
(e.g., Citalopram, fluoxetine), nefazodone, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine
drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tramadol,
tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., Elavil, amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, flecainide, propafenone,
clozapine, trazodone, lithium, tryptophan, "blood
thinners" (e.g., warfarin), any herbal/natural
products (e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause
drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives,
tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam),
narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric
medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine),
anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle
relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Report other drugs which affect the heart rhythm
(QTc prolongation), such as: dofetilide, pimozide,
sotalol, quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water
pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide).
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do
not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
Zoloft OVERDOSE
If Zoloft overdose is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular heartbeat,
fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Zoloft NOTES
Do not share Zoloft with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Zoloft as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the
missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Zoloft STORAGE
Store Zoloft at room temperature between 59 and 86
degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and
moisture.
