Sertraline

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/20/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of sertraline can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of sertraline use include:

• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Dizziness
  
• Insomnia or drowsiness
  
• Headache
  
• Heartburn
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Changes in appetite or weight
  
• Increased sweating
  
• Tremor
  
• Sexual dysfunction (such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm)
  
  

More severe side effects of sertraline use can include:

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior (especially in young adults)
  
• Serotonin syndrome (symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
  
• Manic episodes (abnormally high energy, racing thoughts, reckless behavior)
  
• Seizures
  
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising
  
• Low sodium levels (symptoms may include headache, weakness, confusion, problems concentrating or remembering, unsteadiness)
  
  

If you experience any severe side effects while taking sertraline, seek immediate medical attention.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with sertraline. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with sertraline.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• MAO inhibitors (e.g., selegiline, phenelzine)
  
• Other SSRIs or SNRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, venlafaxine)
  
• Tricyclic antidepressants
  
• Benzodiazepines
  
• Antipsychotics
  
• Anti-seizure medications
  
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
  
• Antiarrhythmics
  
• Herbal supplements (e.g., St. John's wort)
  
  

Mention medical conditions such as:

• History of seizures
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Bipolar disorder or mania
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
• Diabetes
  
• Glaucoma
  
• Cardiac arrhythmias
  
• Bleeding disorders
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using sertraline to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take sertraline exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting them.

It may take several weeks for sertraline to take full effect. Continue taking the medication even if you do not immediately feel better.

Avoid alcohol while taking sertraline, as it may worsen certain side effects.

Do not suddenly stop taking sertraline without your healthcare provider's guidance, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms.

In case of a sertraline overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, tremors, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.