Drug Uses

Zoloft is a medicine prescribed for treatment of depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (also called OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (also called PTSD) in adults. Zoloft is also used for treatment of OCD in children between 6 and 12 years of age and adolescents aged 12-17.

How Taken

Zoloft is available as a tablet that is taken orally. It is commonly taken one time a day with or without food. You should take Zoloft exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. You should not discontinue the usage of Zoloft even if you feel better and without a consultation with your doctor, and especially if you have been taking large doses for a long period of time. Your doctor may want to reduce your dosage gradually. You should take Zoloft regularly to experience its full effect.

Warnings/Precautions

You should inform your doctor if you have liver disease; kidney disease; suffer from seizures; or suffer from mania or have suicidal thoughts. If you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions, you may not been able to use Zoloft or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Zoloft falls into the FDA category C which means that it is not clear if is harmful for a fetus. Talk to your doctor before using Zoloft in case you are pregnant. Also, consult your doctor before taking the medicine if you are breast feeding because it is not clear if Zoloft passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one. In case you take the medicine before you go to bed and you forget to take it until the next morning, you should skip the missed dose.

Possible Side Effects

Discontinue the usage of Zoloft and search for medical help if you experience any of the following serious adverse effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular heartbeat or pulse; low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness); high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or chills or fever. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Zoloft if you headache; tremor, nervousness, or anxiety; nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight; sleepiness or insomnia; or decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm. You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Zoloft should be stored at a temperature of 25°C (77°F); fluctuations allowed to 15° - 30°C (59° - 86°F).

Overdose

Immediately search for medical help if you suspect an overdose. An overdose of Zoloft may be signaled by the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, tremor, seizures, agitation, drowsiness, hyperactivity, and enlarged pupils.

More Information

Be cautious when you drive, operate machinery or perform any other dangerous activity because Zoloft may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid the above-mentioned activities if you experience drowsiness or dizziness. It is recommended that you avoid consummation of alcohol during a treatment with Zoloft because alcohol may enhance the drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medicine.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.