Zoloft, or sertraline by generic name, is a SSRI or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant drug. The medication is used as a treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, panic disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Anti-depressant medications have sometimes been linked with suicidal ideations in children, young adults, and adolescents. Individuals who begin taking anti-depressants should be monitored closely so that all negative side effects can be avoided. If symptoms worsen instead of improve, you should contact a physician immediately. Potential negative side effects might include hostility, fatigue, anxiety, impulsive behavior, and suicidal ideations.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should not be taken with Zoloft as very serious side effects may arise. MAOIs are usually used to treat depression, Parkinson’s disease, and emotional issues.
Zoloft may also lead to potentially fatal side effects such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and serotonin syndrome. The symptoms of these issues include elevated temperature and heart rate, changes in mental status, rigidity in the muscles, diarrhea, vomiting, problems in coordination, and hyperreflexia. If these symptoms arise, you should contact your physician immediately.
Individuals who take pimozide, an antipsychotic drug, or MAOIs should not take Zoloft. You should also avoid Zoloft if you are sensitive or allergic to the ingredients. Additionally, patients who are receiving Antabuse, a drug which treats alcoholism, should not take Zoloft.
You should tell your physician about all of the drugs or pills which you are taking, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. You should also talk to the physician about your medical history, particularly any issues regarding bleeding disorders, seizures, liver problems, mania, or a suicidal history.
You should not consume alcohol while taking the medication or operate a car or other piece of machinery until you know how the drug will affect you.
Never cease using Zoloft abruptly as this might cause side effects such as irritability, dizziness, headache, and sleepiness.
Side effects can include insomnia, diarrhea, sleeplessness, sexual side effects, and dry mouth.
The side effects of taking Zoloft during pregnancy are not known. You should make sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant in the near future.
Have you suffered from the side effects of taking Zoloft?
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