Getting to Know Zoloft

Also known as Sertraline Hydrochloride, Zoloft is an antidepressant that falls under the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drug class. Positive outcome are almost always paired up with negative one but users will try to avoid the latter. The effectiveness of the drug depends mainly on the person taking it. Intake of other drugs and alcohol while taking Zoloft can affect the drug’s effectiveness.

Zoloft is an FDA-approved drug for treating Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Stress Traumatic Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder for adults. Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in children and adolescents ages 6-17 years old was also approved by the FDA.

Prior to Zoloft intake, patients are advised to visit their doctors for there may be other conditions that can alter the drug’s effectiveness. Some of them are having a bipolar disorder or family history of the disease, an unstable heart disease, diabetes, seizures, suicidal thoughts, liver disease, any food and drug allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding a child. Information like these are important to note so that the negative effects of the drug will be avoided and the desirable effects be achieved.

Patients will experience suicidal thoughts during the first few months of the treatment so regular monitoring must be done within the period. Worsening and/or development of new symptoms should be reported to the health care provider for further evaluation. Zoloft has also been associated with congenital malformations in infants whose mothers were exposed to the drug during pregnancy. Pregnant woman or woman about to have a baby is advised to talk to their health care provider first before taking the drug.

While on Zoloft, drinking alcohol is not recommended for it can increase some of the side effects of the drug. Also, mental alertness is impaired while taking Zoloft, thus, activities requiring one should be minimal. Simultaneous intake of Zoloft and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) is prohibited. Intake of these drugs should be at least 14 days or 2 weeks apart. Serious and sometimes fatal reactions may result from simultaneous use of the drug.

Any prescribed drug can result to both positive and negative effects. The patient’s approach to the drug regimen can greatly affect the outcome. Suicidal thoughts, impaired mental alertness and other Zoloft birth defects are only some of the possible outcomes. It is best that patients be informed.