Episode #31: sertraline (Zoloft) | Podcast Show Notes
setraline (SER tra leen)
Below will be links for the full Podcast and the Drug Card for sertraline along with a brief summary of various points on sertraline.Â
QUESTIONS:
- Which of the following are common side effects for sertraline? Select all that apply.
- A). Nausea
- B). Dizziness
- C). Increased cholesterol
- D). Increased GI distress
- E). Trouble sleeping
- F). All of the above
- What is the black box warning for sertraline?
- True or False. Sertraline should not be used in pregnancy due to an increased risk of major birth defects.Â
- True or False. Although sertraline selectively inhibits serotonin reuptake, there are still adrenergic and cholinergic effects with no affinity to histamine and benzodiazepine receptors.
SUMMARY:
Sertraline, also known by the brand game Zoloft, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is commonly associated with being an antidepressant. There are many indications for sertraline being for depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, PMDD, and anxiety. Although the manufacturer established a max daily dose of 200 mg/day higher doses from 250-400 mg/day have proven beneficial in clinical practice. Sertraline is not to be used during or within 14 days of a MAOI. Common side effects are nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, sweating, diarrhea, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping. There is a black box warning for Suicidality and antidepressant drugs but that increased risk has been seen in patients under the age of 24. Regardless it is important to monitor a patient for clinical worsening of symptoms and for the emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
ANSWERS:Â Â
- A, B, D, and E are correct. There is no concern of and increase in cholesterol and F is incorrect because it includes C.Â
- Suicidality and antidepressant drugs
- False. At this time there is no data supporting an increased risk of major birth defects. However, there have been concerns for respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, and others. Dosing is individualized.
- False. Sertraline is a SSRI that has a strong effect on serotonin with weak effects on norepinephrine and dopamine.
PDF of Drug Card: sertraline
