Sertraline

Filed under: Anti Depressant Medication

Displayed: lustral 100mg

Sertraline hydrochloride (Lustral U.K Zoloft U.S.A) has been approved to treat major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), panic disorder and social phobia (social anxiety disorder). Primarily used to treat major depression in adult outpatients as well as obsessive-compulsive-disorder, panic, and social anxiety disorders in both adults and children. Sertaline belongs to a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI’s). which lift moodiness, increase physical activity and restores interest in everyday life. Sertaline is generally well tolerated and any stomach problems such as nausea or diarrhoea are usually dose related and decrease with continued use. Sertaline is said to be less sedating and causes fewer side effects than tricyclic antidepressants.

The effect of sertraline on the core symptoms of depression is similar to that of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs); however, it is better tolerated and results in a better quality of life. The U.S. patent for Zoloft expired in 2006, and sertraline is now available in generic form.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Antidepressant with danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase the sedative effects of sertraline.

Side Effects

You may if prescribed sertraline suffer one or more of these side effects in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Anxiety, Diarrhoea, Indigestion, Insomnia, Loss Of Appetite, Nausea.
Rare: Dizziness, Fainting, Sexual Problems, Itching, Palpitations, Rash, Tremor, Dry Mouth.

Sertraline shares the same common side effects as other SSRIs, with a high percentage of nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, and sexual side effects; however, it does not cause weight gain, and its effects on cognition (process of thought) are mild.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using Sertraline It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

No problems would be expected. Side effects would diminish with time, or if it becomes necessary a reduction in dosage may also help to diminish unwanted side effects.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how sertraline affects you, sertraline can cause drowsiness, dizziness, Visual disturbances and hallucinations. You should also avoid alcohol as the effects of SSRI’s can increase the sedative effects of alcohol.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

It has not been established yet as to whether sertraline is safe. If you are going to breast feed safety here is also not established yet. Discuss both these issues with your doctor.

Sertraline is classified as a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60′s & Children

No special problems would be expected for the over 60′s. However, sertraline is not recommended for children under 6 years. A reduced dose would also be necessary for children over 6 years who suffered with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Overdose

An unintentional dose is unlikely to cause problems. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms or if a large overdoses has been taken, Notify your doctor or go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital taking the container with you. Even if it is empty.

Other Medication Reactions

All medicines that have a sedative effect on the nervous system will more likely than not increase the sedative properties of this drug. If monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) range of drugs is taken then a period of 14 days must elapse before the commencement of sertraline. In the case of changing from sertraline to MAOI’s then a period of 7 days should elapses. If you are taking both trypophan and sertraline then these two together could cause agitation and nausea. If you take lithium with sertraline the lithium can increase the risk of unwanted side effects. Sumatriptan may also cause unwanted side effects when taken with sertraline. Sedatives May increase any sedative effects sertraline may have.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taking this drug without first consulting your doctor. He may supervise a gradual reduction in your dosage.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

It is possible that the some effects may be felt within 7 days. However, it may take as long as 2 or 3 weeks to get the full benefit of this medication. Long term treatment could find antidepressant effects lasting for some weeks however, adverse effects may wear off after a few days.

Storage and Safety

• Keep sertraline in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take sertraline if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely.

If sertraline has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.