Sertraline is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Sertraline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, obsessive or compulsive symptoms, panic or anxiety, or other psychiatric symptoms.

Sertraline is used to treat depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia.

Sertraline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Special precautions

Do not take sertraline if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as phenelzine (Nardil), isocarboxazid (Marplan), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) during the last 2 weeks. Serious, and sometimes fatal, reactions have occurred when these medicines have been used together.

Do not take sertraline if you are taking pimozide (Orap). A dangerous drug interaction could result.

Before taking sertraline, tell your doctor if you

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

Sertraline is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is unknown whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take sertraline without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether sertraline passes into breast milk. Do not take sertraline without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking sertraline and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:

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

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking sertraline and talk to your doctor:

• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm
• sleepiness or insomnia; or
• nausea, dry mouth, diarrhea, or changes in appetite or weight;
• tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
• headache;

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Keep all appointment with your doctor.

Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.