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Zoloft Medication Information :
Zoloft Usage :
Zoloft (Sertraline) is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive
compulsive disorders (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Zoloft has also been used to treat a severe form of premenstrual
syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder- PMDD) and a sexual function
problem in men (premature ejaculation). Zoloft works by helping to
restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
How to take Zoloft :
Take Zoloft by mouth usually once daily with or without food; or as
directed by your doctor. It is recommended that you take your dosage at
the same time each day, either in the morning or in the evening. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is
important to continue taking Zoloft as prescribed even if you feel well.
Also, do not stop taking Zoloft without consulting your doctor. It may
take up to 4 weeks before the full benefit of Zoloft takes effect.
Zoloft Side Effects :
Nausea, headache, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, drowsiness,
dizziness, or upset stomach may occur. If any of these effects persist
or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if
any of these serious side effects occur: loss of appetite, unusual
weight loss, unusual or severe mental/mood changes, increased
sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor),
decreased interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
unlikely but serious side effects occur: vision changes, changes in
sexual ability, painful and/or prolonged erection. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side
effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, muscle pain,
trouble swallowing, ringing in in the ears, seizures. An allergic
reaction to Zoloft is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if
it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching,
swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions for Zoloft :
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems,
kidney disease, seizures, heart problems, any allergies. Zoloft may make
you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring
alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Caution is advised when using Zoloft in the elderly because they may be
more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Zoloft should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Zoloft passes into breast milk.
Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using
Zoloft is not recommended. Consult your doctor if pregnant or
breast-feeding.
Zoloft Drug Interactions :
Certain medications taken with Zoloft could result in serious, even fatal,
drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone,
isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine,
selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before or after treatment
with Zoloft. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional
information. Zoloft is not recommended for use with: weight loss drugs
(e.g., sibutramine, phentermine), terfenadine, astemizole. Ask your
doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all
prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially:
other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine), nefazodone,
venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan),
tramadol, tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, flecainide, propafenone, clozapine,
trazodone, lithium, tryptophan, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), any
herbal/natural products (e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as:
medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g.,
diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric
medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure
drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines
(e.g., diphenhydramine). Report other drugs which affect the heart
rhythm (QTc prolongation), such as: dofetilide, pimozide, sotalol,
quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin, "water pills" (diuretics such as
furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide). Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Notes :
The information contained on this website is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate
that use of Zoloft is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using Zoloft.
Zoloft Missed Dosage :
If you miss a dose, use Zoloft as soon as you remember. If it is near the
time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Zoloft Storage :
Store Zoloft at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30
degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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