Zoloft is the most prescribed drug through the decade in its category. The awesome healing powers of Zoloft have preceded its popularity as a drug that can handle your psychological imbalances with the utmost care.
Zoloft – An Outline:
Zoloft is an approved drug for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, social anxiety stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and depression in adults above the age of 18. Zoloft can also be used for treating children with OCD. Zoloft has been in the market for more than a decade and more prescribed than any of its kind. Only a registered physician can write a Zoloft prescription, which is available in multiple doses.
Zoloft – Mechanism:
Zoloft belongs to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that are very effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders like panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and a severe form of premenstrual syndrome called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Zoloft works by assisting in the restoration of the balance of certain natural substances in the brain known as neurotransmitters. Zoloft acts on the neurotransmitter serotonin to effect the necessary mental changes.
Zoloft Contraindications:
Zoloft or Sertraline is used for the treatment of depression and certain anxiety disorders, but it may prove counterproductive in the case of in seriously depressed and hospitalized patients. Patients with hypersensitivity to SSRIs should also avoid taking Zoloft. The reaction of Zoloft to other MAO inhibitors hasn’t been studied. Hence, it is advisable for you to put a break of at least 14 days between the intake of Zoloft and these inhibitors to avoid serious complications.
Zoloft Precautions:
Zoloft may have adverse effects on your body, if you take it in conditions that are detrimental and deleterious. It would be a proper step to consult your doctor if you have the slightest indication of any of the following physical and psychological problems:
- Suicidal tendencies
- Seizures and epilepsy
- Inducement of mania or hypomania
- Heart problems
- Liver problems
- Kidney problems
- Cancer
- Blood pressure diseases
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
Zoloft should not mixed with alcohol and other narcotics, as the combination is very likely to cause occupational hazards. Zoloft is not meant for:
- Children
- Geriatrics ( the elderly), and
- Labor and delivery.
Zoloft is generally not taken along with the following medicines:
- CNS active drugs
- Warfarin
- Digitoxin
- Prothrombin
- Dextrose
- Beta blockers
- Cimetidine
- Insulin
Zoloft Dosage:
Zoloft is taken orally in the form of capsules, tablets and oral concentrates. Zoloft is generally available in white and yellow capsules of 50 mg and orange capsules of 100 mg. The dosage of Zoloft would differ according to the medical condition and the individual. The dosage in adults would be:
- 50 mg taken once a day for mental depression and OCD.
- 25 mg taken once a day for social phobias, panic disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder
- 50 mg taken once a day for premenstrual dysphoric disorder
In children with Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), the dosage of Zoloft would be:
- 25 mg taken once a day for children between 6 and 12 years
- 50 mg taken once a day for children between 13 and 17 years
- Doctor’s prescription for children under 6 years.
Zoloft Storage:
- Zoloft is generally stored in room temperature between 15 and 30°C
- Zoloft is stored away from heat and light
- Zoloft is not stored in damp and wet place
- Zoloft should be kept away from the reach of children
- Zoloft shouldn’t be used after the expiry date
Zoloft Side Effects:
Zoloft can have adverse side effects if it is taken under the wrong conditions. The side effects of Zoloft may range from sexual problems to gastrointestinal complaints. Some of the commonly occurring complaints with the intake of Zoloft are:
- Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Sexual dysfunction in male
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
The Sudden withdrawal or discontinuation of Zoloft may also cause you problems like:
- Agitation
- Retarded ejaculation
- Anorexia
- Fatigue
- Loose stools
- Tremor
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Somnolence
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