Zoloft (Sertraline) Benefits, Risks, Uses

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Dr. Alexander Sidawi

Dr. Sidawi is an Orlando based, UF trained physician who is happy to be serving the community he grew up in by offering a combination of psychiatric medication management and psychodynamic psychotherapy.

Pill bottle for ZoloftWhat Is Zoloft (Sertraline)? 

Zoloft is an antidepressant that is commonly used as a first-line treatment for many mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD among others. It can help alleviate feelings of low energy or exhaustion and can reduce tendencies of overthinking, racing thoughts, shakes, sweats and other symptoms associated with the panic response.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented, as the medical profession is constantly updating and improving. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition or medication.

When is Zoloft used?

Zoloft is a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, panic disorder, agoraphobia, PTSD, OCD, bulimia, and other eating disorders. It can also reduce premature ejaculation in men and treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women. Off-label, it may help manage menopause symptoms.

What are Zoloft’s main benefits?

Zoloft relieves symptoms of depression, including persistent sadness, low mood, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. It also reduces excessive worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, agoraphobia, and intrusive thoughts in anxiety disorders. Additionally, it helps with PTSD and PMDD symptoms such as severe mood swings, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It can reduce obsessions and compulsions related to OCD, though target doses may be higher than typically required.

What are Zoloft’s most common side effects?

Common side effects for sertraline include diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and insomnia. Gastrointestinal issues and headaches often improve after the first week. Nervous system-related side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness, are less common in children and adolescents than in adults.

How does Zoloft work?

Zoloft increases serotonin levels in the brain by preventing its rapid reabsorption, helping to regulate mood. It has minimal effects on other neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine.

How is Zoloft commonly dosed?

Zoloft is typically taken once daily in doses ranging from 25 mg to 200 mg. In some cases, doses up to 400 mg may offer additional benefits for patients who don’t respond to standard doses. Dosage should always be determined by a physician.

What are other common names for Zoloft?

Zoloft is also known by its generic name, Sertraline.

Looking For A Psychiatrist In Orlando Florida?

Dr. Sidawi is happy to be a part of your journey towards mental health, or at least point you in the right direction. Please either fill out the contact form below, call or email and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We are now scheduling adults age 18 and up residing in Florida for initial appointments. Unfortunately, due to laws around cash pay we cannot see patients who have Medicare or Medicaid.

Email: Info@AnalyzePsych.com
Phone: 407-900-9656