Sertraline – SSRI antidepressant for depression and anxiety disorders.
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What is Sertraline?
Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. It’s one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the UK.
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What is Sertraline used for?
- Depression (major depressive disorder)
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
How does Sertraline work?
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels in the brain, helping to improve mood, anxiety, and other symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Starting dose 50mg daily, may be increased to 100-200mg daily as needed.
Children
Suitable for children over 6 years for OCD only—specialist supervision required.
Important Notes
- Take at the same time each day, preferably in the morning.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- May take 4-6 weeks to feel full benefits.
- Do not stop suddenly—gradual withdrawal required.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and stomach upset
- Headache
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Dizziness
- Sleep disturbances
- Sexual side effects
- Dry mouth
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (especially when starting)
- Serotonin syndrome (confusion, rapid heart rate, high fever)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Abnormal bleeding or bruising
- Seizures
Important Warnings
- May initially increase thoughts of self-harm, especially in under 25s—close monitoring required.
- Do not stop taking suddenly—risk of withdrawal symptoms.
- May affect your ability to drive or operate machinery initially.
- Tell your GP if you have epilepsy, bleeding disorders, or liver/kidney problems.
- Avoid alcohol as it may worsen side effects.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) – dangerous interaction, avoid completely.
- Other antidepressants – risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Warfarin and blood thinners – increased bleeding risk.
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin) – increased bleeding risk.
- Tramadol – risk of serotonin syndrome.
- St John's Wort – avoid this herbal supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Sertraline take to work?
You may notice some improvement within 1-2 weeks, but it typically takes 4-6 weeks to feel the full benefits. Some people may need up to 12 weeks.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Sertraline?
It's best to avoid alcohol as it can worsen depression and anxiety symptoms and may increase side effects like drowsiness.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Don't take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can I stop taking Sertraline when I feel better?
No, you should continue treatment as advised by your GP. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Your GP will help you reduce the dose gradually when appropriate.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14