Generic
Sertraline Hydrochloride
42 brands available in the market
At a glance
Sertraline Hydrochloride is an SSRI antidepressant used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Description
Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with potent and selective inhibitory action on CNS neuronal 5-HT reuptake. It increases 5-HT concentrations at synaptic clefts, facilitating sustained activity at postsynaptic receptor sites, and improving depression. Its long half-life (26 hours) allows once-daily administration.
Indications
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic Disorder (PD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Therapeutic class
SSRIs & Related Antidepressants
Pharmacological class
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
Pharmacology
Sertraline inhibits CNS neuronal 5-HT reuptake, increasing serotonin concentration at synaptic clefts, which enhances sustained activity at postsynaptic receptor sites and improves depressive symptoms. Reduced serotonin turnover in the brain also contributes to its action.
Mechanism of action
Increases serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting reuptake, improving mood.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- MDD/OCD: Start 50 mg/day; increase by 50 mg weekly; max 200 mg/day
- PD/PTSD/SAD: Start 25 mg/day for 1 week; then 50 mg/day; increase by 50 mg weekly; max 200 mg/day
- PMDD (Continuous): Start 50 mg/day; increase by 50 mg per cycle; max 150 mg/day
- PMDD (Intermittent): Start 50 mg/day (luteal phase); increase by 50 mg per cycle; max 100 mg/day
Pediatric Dose (Oral) – OCD:
- 6-12 years: Start 25 mg/day
- 13-17 years: Start 50 mg/day
- Max 200 mg/day
Administration
- Take orally with or without food
- Take at the same time each day
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite
- Insomnia, tremor, increased sweating
- Delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction
- Decreased sexual desire
Precautions & warnings
- Monitor for suicidal thoughts/behavior (especially at 2-3 weeks)
- Do not use with or within 14 days of MAOIs
- Reduce dose in liver disease; avoid in severe liver disease
- Caution in pregnancy and lactation
- May affect driving ability
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sertraline or any excipient
- Concurrent use with or within 14 days of MAOI
- Concurrent use with pimozide
Drug interactions
- MAOIs: Serious serotonin syndrome
- Warfarin/acenocoumarol: Increased anticoagulant activity
- Carbamazepine: Decreased sertraline levels
- Cimetidine/ritonavir: Increased plasma levels
- Antimuscarinics: Increased delirium risk
- Linezolid/dihydroergotamine: Serotonin syndrome
Food interactions
Alcohol is unsafe with Sertraline Hydrochloride (excessive drowsiness).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe; animal studies show harmful effects; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Probably unsafe; limited data suggests drug may pass into breast milk and harm the baby; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for OCD in children 6-12 years and 13-17 years
Geriatric use
Elderly may be more sensitive to drug effects; caution required
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe in kidney disease; no dose adjustment needed; initially lower dose may be given; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed; not recommended in severe liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause serotonin syndrome; hemodialysis not effective; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Sertraline Hydrochloride