Sertraline belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
It works by increasing the amounts of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance
Dosage
Depression; Obsessive compulsive disorder -
Adult:Initially, 50 mg daily, may increase in increments of 50 mg at weekly intervals. Max: 200 mg daily
Child:For obsessive compulsive disorder:6-12 yrInitially, 25 mg once daily;13-17 yrInitially, 50 mg once daily. May increase at intervals of at least 1 week. Max: 200 mg daily
Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia; Posttraumatic stress disorder; Social anxiety disorder -
Adult:Initially, 25 mg daily, increased to 50 mg daily after a week. May increase in increments of 50 mg at weekly intervals. Max: 200 mg daily
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder -
Adult:Initially, 50 mg daily, either throughout the menstrual cycle or during the luteal phase only. May increase in increments of 50 mg per menstrual cycle. Max: 150 mg daily (for continuous dosing) or 100 mg daily (during luteal phase). Patient who require 100 mg daily during luteal phase-only: Initially, 50 mg daily for the first 3 days of each luteal phase period
Side Effects
Uncontrollable movements
Changes in sex drive
Abdominal discomfort or pain
Constipation
Pain or tingling in fingers or thumb
Gas or bloating
Dry mouth
Excessive tiredness
Warnings/Precautions
Do not suddenly withdraw or discontinue therapy on your own.
Do not take this drug if you are consuming other antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) or have been taking them within the previous two to five weeks.
Sertraline can impair mental and physical coordination and, therefore, caution has to be taken before operating an automobile or machinery or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness and coordination.
Do not start or stop taking this medicine during pregnancy without your doctor's advice.
Avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase certain side effects of sertraline