After extensive studies, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave the stamp of approval to Zoloft to be diagnosed for the treatment of many anxiety and mood disorders, which includes social anxiety disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder in adults over the age of 18. The drug has also been approved for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder in children and teenagers between the ages of 6 to 17 years old.
Depression is considered to be a severe medical condition, which can be accompanied by, or lead to, suicidal feelings and behavior. Any children, teenagers, or young adults who are taking anti-depressants could possibly be at an increased risk for these suicidal thoughts and behaviors during the first couple of months of treatment. This risk must be taken into account when factoring in the medical need for the anti-depressant. Any who are just starting out on the anti-depressant medication need to be monitored for symptoms including suicidal feelings, an increase in depression, or any changes in their mood or behavior that can be deemed unusual. Children and teenagers can only use Zoloft if they are diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder. Be sure to learn about this in the patient medication guide titled "Antidepressant Medicines, Depression and Other Serious Mental Illnesses, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions".
What are the side effects of using Zoloft?
The common side effects of Zoloft include insomnia, dry mouth, diarrhea, nausea, sexual side effects and sleepiness. Please note that not all users of Zoloft experience these side effects, and that the more likely than not lessen over time. If you experience any side effects, tell your doctor about them.
Can I become addicted to Zoloft?
Zoloft is non-habit forming or addictive.
Does Zoloft cause weight gain?
The studies have shown that there is no association with Zoloft and weight gain, so you should not gain weight while you are taking Zoloft.
Does Zoloft affect my personality?
Zoloft does not modify any personality traits. It is used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders.
What makes Zoloft work?
When you take Zoloft, it may help to balance the serotonin in your body. This can help you get relief from pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder. Serotonin syndrome is potentially a life-threatening condition that can occur during treatment with SNRIs, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that includes Zoloft, especially when it is taken while taking another drug that is used to increase serotonin levels. The serotonin syndrome symptoms may include sweating, muscle stiffness, fever, having trouble thinking clearly, changes in mental functioning, sleepiness, changes in your breathing patterns, changes in your heartbeat or your blood pressure. Stop taking Zoloft immediately and consult your doctor if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
How long do I need to take Zoloft?
Every woman has different needs, so every woman has a different duration assigned to them. Sometimes a woman will start to notice a difference by their first menstrual cycle after treatment, and others might take longer than that. If you don't feel a change right away, don't be discouraged, and keep taking the recommended dosage as prescribed by your doctor.
