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Sertraline

Sertraline is an antidepressant used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. It is taken as a film-coated tablet.

Medicine containing Sertraline

Sertraline

Major Depressive Disorder, Panic Disorder

25 · 50 · 100mg

Sertraline is an SSRI tablet for depression, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It comes in several strengths and pack sizes. Each option lists its price per tablet.

FromUS$0.40/ tabletView

Key points

  • Sertraline tablets are available in 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg strengths.
  • It may take 2–4 weeks before its effects are felt.
  • Treatment is commonly continued for 6–12 months.

What sertraline is used for

Sertraline is used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder. It is also used for post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

How sertraline works

Sertraline inhibits the reuptake of serotonin into presynaptic neurons. This raises serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft and enhances serotonergic transmission, which helps regulate mood.

Sertraline tablets available

Sertraline is supplied as a film-coated tablet in 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg strengths: Sertraline. It belongs to the antidepressants category. Pharmacy partners in India ship orders to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety and side effects

Sertraline must not be used with MAO inhibitors, including isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue, phenelzine, selegiline and tranylcypromine, or within two weeks of stopping them. It must also not be used by anyone with hypersensitivity to it or with pimozide. Treatment needs monitoring for worsening mood or suicidal ideation. Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal can include nausea, sweating, mood changes, dizziness, confusion, seizures and difficulty sleeping. Serotonin syndrome is rare but serious; it causes a fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking, muscle twitching and confusion or agitation, and needs immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis can cause a swollen throat or tongue, raised itchy rash and difficulty breathing. Other side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, insomnia, dizziness, somnolence and sexual dysfunction. Alcohol, St John’s wort and aspirin can interact. Use in pregnancy only if expected benefit outweighs fetal risk; use in breastfeeding with caution and monitor the infant. Caution is advised in epilepsy and in adolescents.

What the sources say

  • Sertraline belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of antidepressants. (MedlinePlus)
  • Sertraline carries a warning that suicidal thoughts and actions may become more likely in children, teenagers and adults under 24, particularly early in treatment or after a dose increase. (MedlinePlus)

Further reading

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