Sertraline is an antidepressant medication used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD), according to Drugs.com. It belongs to a class of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and balances the neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain. Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe anywhere between 50 to 200mg of sertraline daily, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Frequent Side Effects
Sertraline can cause such common side effects as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and dry mouth. It can also cause flatulence (gas), poor appetite, changes in weight and extreme fatigue. In some cases, sertraline can cause nervousness, changes in your libido (sex drive), diaphoresis (excessive sweating) and pain or tingling in the hands or feet, according to MedlinePlus. Other common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, sore throat and convulsions. Seek medical assistance if you experience these symptoms. Your doctor may change your dosage or find another medication for you.
Mental Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, sertraline can affect your state of mind and cause or worsen existing psychiatric symptoms. It may cause anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, impulsiveness, agitation or hostility. Sertraline can also cause hyperactivity, restlessness, further depression and suicidal thoughts or actions. Call your doctor immediately when you experience these psychological changes.
Serious Side Effects
MedlinePlus says that sertraline can cause the following harmful side effects: fever, confusion, tachycardia (fast heartbeat), arrythmia (irregular heartbeat) and hallucinations. Other serious side effects include blurry vision, muscle stiffness and abnormal bruising or bleeding. Notify your doctor right away if you have these side effects.
Miscellaneous Concerns
Do not combine sertraline with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). This combination can lead to hyperthermia (high body temperature), confusion, extreme agitation, rigidity, delirium and even coma, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Avoid sertraline if you are allergic to its components. Swelling of your face, lips or throat and difficulty breathing may result. Another side effect is the development of hives. Report these symptoms to your doctor.
Drugs.com warns that you should avoid alcohol and disulfiram because mixing these two drugs with sertraline can lead to the aforementioned side effects.
Tell your doctor if you are taking such medications as tramadol, lithium, digitoxin and warfarin. These medications can interact with sertraline, make it less effective and cause the previously mentioned side effects.
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