Sertraline ( Zoloft ) is used in the treatment of all types of depression. It may also be used to panic disorder, social phobia, obesity, or obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD ).



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Strengths:

Tablets:

50mg, 100mg

Dosages:
Actual dosage must be determined by a physician.

Oral:

Start: 50mg 3 times daily.
Increases: 50mg in 3 or 4 day intervals.
Maximum: 400 mg in 24 hours.

Normal dosage:

If under 12 years of age, DO NOT USE!
12 to 60 years of age, 50mg.
Over 60 years of age, Lower dosage increased cautiously.

Problems with:

Liver Function:  Lower dosage,  as needed.
In rare cases, may cause liver damage.

Kidney Function:  N/A.

Take With:  With food.

Full Benefits In:  First week to three or more weeks.

Missed Dose(s):  If within one hour take, if over an hour skip and then continue on your normal schedule.
Never Take a Double Dose!

If Stop Taking:  Do not stop without consulting your physician.


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Warnings

The habit-forming potential is none.

Do not take this drug if you have taken a  MAO inhibitor, monoamine oxidase ( MAO ) in the last five weeks.

Do not take this drug if you plan to have electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT ).

Do not take this drug if you are pregnant, try some non-drug alternatives.

Do not take this drug if planning to become pregnant. Do not take if you are breast-feeding.

Do not give this drug to any one under eighteen. If over sixty only use drug in small doses and with close monitoring of it's side effects.

Do not use if: You had negative reactions to this drug in the past.

Inform your Doctor if: You had negative reactions to this drug in the past. If you have a history of seizures, recent heart attack, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, or liver disease. If you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drug. If you plan to be under anesthesia or having any surgery in the next few months, also if you will be undergoing any medical tests.


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Sertraline ( Symptoms or Effects )

Common:  Diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry month, headache, indigestion, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, tingling, or vomiting.

Rare:  Altered taste, abnormal vision, chest pain, confusion, hallucinations, headache, hives, impaired concentration, increased blood pressure, numbness, paresthesias, or tongue ulceration.

See physician always:  Altered taste, abnormal vision, chest pain, confusion, dry month, hallucinations, impaired concentration, increased blood pressure, numbness, paresthesias, or tongue ulceration.

See physician if severe:  Diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, indigestion, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, tingling, or vomiting.

See physician NOW:

Stop taking and see physician NOW: Anemia, hives, skin rash, or seizures.