Side Effects of Sertraline

Sertraline is an antidepressant drug sold under the brand name Zoloft. Distributed by Pfizer Inc., sertraline is categorized as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is prescribed to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Warning

Sertraline, like other antidepressants, carries a black box warning mandated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The drug increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, especially in people under age 24.

Danger Signs

Signs and symptoms to watch for include anxiety or panic attacks, hostility or aggression, dangerous activity, mania or bipolar symptoms, and thinking about suicide.

Most Common Effects

The most common side effects in clinical trials with sertraline included nausea, diarrhea and insomnia, occurring in more than 20 percent of participants.

Other Common Effects

More than 10 percent of participants experienced dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, indigestion, loss of appetite, sexual dysfunction or shakiness.

Less-Common Effects

Side effects experienced by more than 2 percent of participants included abdominal pain, burning or tingling skin, constipation, headaches, hot flashes, increased perspiration, nervousness, vision changes and weight loss.

Side Effects in Children

Sertraline side effects that occur more often in children are abnormal bruising, aggressive behavior, fever, hyperactivity, nosebleeds, sinus inflammation and urinary incontinence.

References

• Side Effects of Sertraline
• Further Information on Sertraline