Zoloft is a prescription drug.
It is used for treating depression,
panic attacks, post traumatic
stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, and social anxiety
disorder. It is also used to
alleviate symptoms of premenstrual
dysphoric disorder, such as
mood swings, irritability, bloating,
and breast tenderness.
Zoloft belongs to a class of
drugs known as Selective Serotonin
Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
It works by increasing the amount
of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin
is a neurotransmitter that plays
a vital role in our brain. It
controls sleep, appetite, temperature,
and blood vessel tone. Serotonin
is also helps in the release
of certain hormones in the body
and plays an important role
in how much pain we feel. Zoloft
acts on serotonin by allowing
electrical impulses to be processed
more smoothly and efficiently
thus, relieving the symptoms
of depression.
Side effects of Zoloft
Like all antidepressants and
other drugs Zoloft produces
side effects.
Some of the more common
side effects of Zoloft include;
- nausea
- diarrhea
- tremors
- insomnia
- drowsiness or dizziness
and
- a dry mouth
These side effects
are usually mild and tend to
go away by themselves. Other
more serious side effects of
Zoloft include;
- upset stomach
- constipation
- vomiting
- gas or bloating
- loss of appetite
- weight changes
- excessive tiredness
- headaches
- pain, burning, or tingling
in the hands or feet
- excitement
- nervousness
- flushing of skin
- increased or decreased
appetite
- sore throat
- changes in a persons sex
drive or ability &
- excessive sweating
Some side effects of
Zoloft can be serious. The following
symptoms are uncommon, but if
you experience any of them,
it is vital that you inform
your doctor immediately:
- blurred vision
- seizures
- abnormal bleeding or bruising
- hallucinations
- anxiety or agitation
- panic attacks
- sleeplessness
- irritability, hostility
or extreme anger and aggressiveness
- engaging in unusual or
dangerous activities
- restlessness
- extreme changes in mood
- fast heart rate or palpitations
- lightheadedness
- skin rash
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Unlike most other medications
in its class, Zoloft has comparatively
fewer side effects. Most of
these side effects are usually
mild and easily managed. However,
the side effects of Zoloft vary
from person to person and some
people may experience some adverse
effects while on this drug.
It is also important for a person
on Zoloft to be in close contact
with their doctor, as in rare
cases this drug can worsen depression
or suicidal tendencies and can
even result in death.
It is very important to remember
that Zoloft must not be taken
in combination with the MAO
Inhibitor, such as Nardil, Parnate,
or Marplan, as it can cause
extreme adverse reactions that
can be fatal. Before switching
to Zoloft from an MAO inhibitor,
a 2 week gap should be given.
Patients suffering from seizures
and heart, liver, or kidney
problems should use Zoloft with
caution. Women who are pregnant,
or intend on becoming pregnant,
or are breastfeeding should
not use this drug.
Warning: Exercise caution while
on Zoloft as it may cause dizziness
or drowsiness. Avoid performing
hazardous activities such as
operating heavy machinery or
driving while on this drug.
Also keep in mind that alcohol
may increase drowsiness or dizziness
while taking Zoloft. |
