What is Sertraline?

Sertraline hydrochloride is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, antidepressant often marketed under such brand names as Sertralin, Xydep, Lustral, Zoloft, Serlain, Gladem, Serlift, Stimuloton, Apo-Sertral, Concorz and Asentra. Sertraline was first approved by the FDA in 1991.

Its main use is treating symptoms of anxiety and depression, but is also prescribed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder (PD), social phobia/social anxiety disorder (SAD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Sertraline is also sometimes used off-label in the treatment of binge eating disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and premature ejaculation. There is also evidence that sertraline may be effective in treating refractory neurocardiogenic syncope in children and teens, and a study has shown the drug to be effective for impulsive aggressive behavior in personality disordered patients.

Side effects of sertraline include sleep disorders (insomnia or somnolence), asthenia, tremors, dizziness, anorgasmia (inability to reach orgasm), nausea, vomiting, confusion, gastrointestinal disturbances, mania or hypomania, decreased libido, and possible weight loss. It is not intended for use by patients taking MAOIs or undergoing electroconvulsive therapy.

The patent for Sertraline expired in June 2006, and as such, is now available in generic form in the US.

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Liver impairment can affect the body’s ability to eliminate this drug, and in these patients, lower or less frequent doses should be administered.

Patients should limit their use of alcohol when taking any antidepressant. Some studies also show that grapefruit juice may interfere with the metabolism of sertraline and increase its concentration in the blood.

Abruptly discontinuing sertraline may lead to somatic and psychological adverse effects such as irritability, agitation, dizziness, sensory disturbances, anxiety, confusion, headache, emotional lability, insomnia, hypomania, dysphoric mood and lethargy.

Author: Jase Donaldson