What is Zoloft?

Zoloft is used to treat:

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which results in depressed mood, anxiety or stress, emotional insecurity, and rage or bad temper in the two weeks prior to menstruation.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). They are unwanted thoughts that won't go away and an overpowering urge to repeat certain actions like hand-washing or counting.
• Panic disorder which includes unexpected attacks of overwhelming nervousness, and the likeliness of the feeling being repeated time and again.
• Social anxiety disorder which refers to excessive shyness in social situations causing an interference in the persons work and social life.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder wherein memories of dangerous or life-threatening events keeps making itself felt through intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and powerful psychological suffering.

How does Zoloft work?

Zoloft works in the body as it helps prevent serotonin from being taken back into the neurons. It affects by adjusting brain levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin by blocking the uptake of serotonin into the platelets. It is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs). Reports suggest that food seems to improve the way the drug works and as such it is recommended that Zoloft is taken at mealtime.

How to Take Zoloft?

Take Zoloft exactly as prescribed: once a day, in either the morning or the evening.

• Taken once daily with or without food.
• Take Zoloft exactly as directed.
• Do not take as of your own accord and follow dosage suggestions.
• Take Zoloft even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Zoloft without discussing with your doctor, particularly if you have been on large doses for a long time. Your doctor probably will prefer decreasing your dose slowly.
• Take Zoloft regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt.
• Zoloft is available in capsule and oral concentrate forms. To prepare Zoloft oral concentrate use the dropper provided and measure the amount of concentrate recommended by your doctor, mixing it with 4 ounces of water, ginger ale, lemon/lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice.
• Drink the mixture immediately. Dispose if kept unused for a while.
• Take forgotten doses as soon as you remember.
• Do not try to make up by doubling the dose.

Side effects of Zoloft

Side effects are not always defined. Hence call your doctor if you notice any change. Your doctor can decide if it is safe for you to carry on taking Zoloft.

Common side effects may include:

• abdominal pain
• agitation
• anxiety
• constipation
• decreased sex drive
• diarrhea or loose stools
• difficulty with ejaculation
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fatigue
• gas
• headache
• decreased appetite
• increased sweating
• indigestion
• insomnia
• nausea
• nervousness
• pain
• rash
• sleepiness
• sore throat
• tingling or pins and needles
• tremor
• vision problems
• vomiting

You may lose a pound or two of body weight during medication. This is not a reason to worry in case your depression has already caused you to lose a considerable weight. At times, Zoloft can activate the high-flying, unsuitable, out-of-control behavior called mania or the less dramatic, hyper state called, hypomania.

Serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction
• difficulty breathing
• closing of the throat
• swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
• hives
• an irregular heartbeat or pulse
• low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness)
• high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision)
• chills or fever

Side effects apart from that mentioned above can occur. Discuss with your doctor regarding anything strange or bothersome.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Zoloft?

Tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease
• kidney disease
• suffer from seizures
• suffer from mania or have suicidal thoughts

As such you will either not be recommended medication or will need it in adjusted doses or after special monitoring during treatment.

Zoloft is in the FDA pregnancy category C implying that it is indefinite whether it will cause harm to an unborn baby. First talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is unknown whether Zoloft passes into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding a baby, talk to your doctor first regarding Zoloft medication.

What should I avoid while taking Zoloft?

Use caution. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Use alcohol carefully as it can add to drowsiness or dizziness while taking Zoloft.