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Sertraline

Antidepressant

Brand names:

Zoloft®

Other names:

Sertraline Hydrochloride

Often used for:

Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Panic disorders, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and Other mood issues.

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What is sertraline?

Sertraline is a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat mental health conditions, such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Sertraline works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a natural substance in the brain that may help regulate mood.

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home. 

Brain

May be given as a tablet by mouth 

 
Brain

May be given as a capsule by mouth

 
Brain

May be given as a liquid by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Abdominal (belly) pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Dizziness
  • Sleep problems
  • Headache
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Increased sweating
  • Tremor (shaking of the body)
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Bleeding or easy bruising
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take sertraline will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your health care provider or pharmacist.

  • It may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine. Contact your health care provider or pharmacist if symptoms get worse or do not improve. 
  • If your child has been taking this medicine on a regular basis and stops taking it, they may have signs of withdrawal. Do not stop giving this medicine without talking to your care team.
  • Watch for changes in your child’s mood or mental health, such as worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic attacks, and trouble sleeping.
  • Seek medical help right away if your child has any suicidal thoughts, actions, or signs of self-harm.
  • This medicine may make your child dizzy or drowsy. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous, such as drive a car or ride a bike, until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • Sertraline can affect your child’s ability to get pregnant or father a child. Talk to your doctor about the risk of fertility problems.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Sertraline at home:

  • Tablets: This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
  • Capsules: Swallow capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or break before swallowing. This medicine can be taken with or without food.
  • Liquid: Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. Mix liquid with 1/2 cup of water, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice. After mixing, give the medicine right away.
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store at room temperature in a dry place.

Learn more about sertraline

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2025