Sertraline

Sertraline, drug used to treat depression and, less often, obsessive-compulsive disorders, which are characterized by persistent ideas (obsessions) that trigger repetitive acts (compulsions). Sertraline works by adjusting brain levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin

Available only by prescription, tablets are taken once a day with or without food. The starting dose is 50 mg, which a doctor may slowly increase, if needed, to a maximum daily dose of 200 mg. Effectiveness is usually apparent after four to eight weeks of treatment.

Patients with impaired liver or kidney function, Parkinson disease, seizures, or a recent heart attack should use sertraline with caution. Its safety for children under the age of 12 or pregnant or breast-feeding women has not been determined.

A variety of possible side effects are associated with sertraline, including headache, agitation, fatigue, insomnia, sleepiness, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, a dry mouth, sweating, irregular heartbeat, tremors, or problems with male sexual performance. Less common side effects are abnormal hair growth, breast enlargement (in both females and males), difficulty breathing or swallowing, sensitivity to bright light, weight loss, or behavioral changes.

Sertraline may interact adversely with diazepam, digitoxin, warfarin, tolbutamide, cimetidine, lithium, various diabetes medications including insulin, and monamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. This drug should not be combined with alcoholic beverages.

Brand Name:Zoloft