Product Details: Zoloft (Sertraline)

PLEASE NOTE BRAND ZOLOFT IS ALSO MARKETED INTERNATIONALLY UNDER THE NAMES LUSTRAL AND DAXID .

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Pfizer

Generic Options

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and a severe form of premenstrual syndrome called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This medicine works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain known as neurotransmitters. This medicine works on the neurotransmitter serotonin. This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE MAY COME WITH A MEDICATION GUIDE. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Try to you take your dosage at the same time each day, either in the morning or in the evening. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. CONTINUE TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel better. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: personal or family history of psychiatric disorder (e.g., bipolar/manic-depressive disorder), personal or family history of suicide attempts, kidney disease, liver disease, seizures, thyroid disease (e.g., hypothyroidism). This drug may make you drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, such as dizziness. The elderly are also more likely to develop a type of mineral imbalance (hyponatremia), especially if they are also taking "water pills" (diuretics) with this medication. Caution is advised when using this drug in children because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially loss of appetite and weight loss. It is important to monitor weight and growth in children who are taking this drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If this medication is used during the last 3 months of pregnancy, infrequently your newborn may develop symptoms including feeding/breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, jitteriness, or constant crying. However, do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor directs you to do so. Tell the doctor immediately if you notice any such symptoms in your newborn. This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include headache, nausea, dry mouth, increased sweating, drowsiness, diarrhea, or upset stomach. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience uncontrollable shaking (tremor), loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, decreased interest in sex, or decreased sexual ability. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience unusual or rapid weight gain, seizures, severe nervousness or anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, feelings of irritability or hostility, impulsive behavior or other unusual changes in behavior, severe restlessness, worsening feelings of depression, thoughts of hurting yourself, or any other mental or mood changes. FOR MEN: In the unlikely event you experience a painful or prolonged erection, seek immediate medical attention or permanent problems could occur. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Sertraline