It works by preventing the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood.
By preventing reuptake, Zoloft can increase the amount of serotonin available in the brain.
Zoloft (sertraline) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Basak Gurbuz Derman / Moment / Getty Images
Zoloft is sometimes prescribed forsocial anxiety disorderand other phobias.
This article discusses how Zoloft works and possible side effects you might experience.
It also covers important precautions to be aware of before taking this medication.
How Does Zoloft Work?
Zoloft, like other SSRIs, works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin into neurons in the brain.
Serotonin is achemical neurotransmitterthat transmits electrical impulses from one neuron to the next.
This allows the chemical to send additional messages to the receiving neuron, which is thought to boost mood.
How Can You Tell if Zoloft Works?
After you first start taking Zoloft, you may experience some daytime sleepiness.
However, some people have the opposite effect and experience increased energy and sleeping problems.
Your doctor may recommend changing when you take your medication depending on the effect you experience.
They may suggest taking it at night before bed if it makes you feel fatigued.
Zoloft takes time to work, so you may wonder how to tell if your medication is helping.
After a few weeks, you may feel less depressed or anxious.
You may have more energy and motivation.
After six to eight weeks, you may see a more noticeable impact on the symptoms of your condition.
You may have an easier time managing your normal everyday activities and better able to enjoy life.
It is important to remember that these changes tend to be gradual.
They may happen slowly, sometimes making it more difficult to notice the improvements you are experiencing.
How Much Zoloft Do you oughta Take?
Zoloft is available in a variety of strengths and is only sold by prescription.
Both liquid and tablet forms of the medication are available.
Your dosage will depend on what you are being treated for.
You may or may not quickly begin to feel the effects.
Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
How Long Does it Take for Zoloft to Work?
Zoloft does not begin working immediately.
Wait at least 14 days after your last dose of any MAOI before beginning sertraline treatment.
Zoloft interacts with a wide range of natural remedies.
Ask your doctor before taking tryptophan,St.
John’s wort, or any other herbal or natural formulation.
Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs while using sertraline.
The FDA expanded its warning in 2007 to include young adults under the age of 25.
Although many young people successfully take these common medications, informed consent is important.
Discuss the benefits and risks with your child’s doctor before making a decision.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Also, let your doctor know if you have a history of drug abuse.
Side Effects When Taking Zoloft
Like all medicines,Zoloft carries a risk for side effects.
What Happens if You Stop Taking Zoloft?
Although the syndrome is not generally considered dangerous, the symptoms can be distressing.
Don’tlower your doseor suddenly stop taking Zoloft without your doctor’s approval.
If you stop taking Zoloft, it is also possible that you may experience a return of symptoms.
If you begin experiencing depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.
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