Reviewing Zoloft
Zoloft, generally known as Sertraline Hydrochloride is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drug category. Along with its intended effects are the undesirable effects that users would want to evade. Drug effectiveness depends largely on the patient taking it. Intake of other drugs and alcohol while taking Zoloft can affect the drug’s effectiveness.
The Food and Drug Administration approved Zoloft to treat Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder for adults. It also has gained an approval to treat Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in children and adolescents ages 6-17 years old but not with depression.
Other underlying situations can affect the drug’s effectiveness, hence, it is suggested that patient consult their health care provider before using Zoloft. These situations may be having a bipolar disorder or family history of the disease, an unstable heart disease, diabetes, seizures, suicidal thoughts, liver disease, any food and drug allergies, or pregnant and breastfeeding woman. These information are vital to making sure that the drug serves its purpose and unwanted effects be minimized.
Within the first few months of treatment, suicidal thoughts are common manifestations and patients should be monitored regularly within that period. Worsening and/or development of new symptoms should be reported to the health care provider for further evaluation. Zoloft has also been associated with congenital malformations in infants whose mothers were exposed to the drug during pregnancy. It is best that pregnant woman or woman planning to have a child talk to their doctor regarding the drug.
Alcohol intake during Zoloft therapy is prohibited because it can increase some side effects of the drug. Activities that require mental alertness should be minimized for the drug can impair the patient’s thinking and reactions. It is also advised that Zoloft and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) not be taken concurrently. In the instance that the patient must take these drugs, each drug must be taken at least 14 days or 2 weeks apart. Serious and sometimes fatal reactions may result from simultaneous use of the drug.
Taking the prescribed medication can bring both good and bad effects. The patient’s approach to the drug regimen can greatly affect the outcome. Zoloft birth defects, impaired mental alertness, and suicidal thoughts are only some of the potential consequence. Patients must be aware always.