SERTRALINE contains Sertraline that works by inhibiting the reabsorption of released serotonin back into the nerve cells. Thus, it increases serotonin activity (chemical messenger) in the brain that is involved in regulating mood, behaviour, and emotions. Thereby, SERTRALINE helps relieve depression, lighten the mood and relieve anxiety symptoms such as fear and panic.
Take SERTRALINE with or without food as prescribed by your doctor and swallow whole with a glass of water. Do not break, crush or chew it. Your doctor will advise you how often you take SERTRALINE based on your medical condition. Some people may experience drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), dry mouth, nausea, headache, diarrhoea, tiredness or ejaculation failure. Most of these side effects of SERTRALINE do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
If you are allergic to SERTRALINE or any other medicines, please tell your doctor. SERTRALINE may be used only to treat Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children aged 6 to 17 years and not treat any other conditions in children below 18 years of age. SERTRALINE is not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the last 3 months. It may cause a serious condition in the baby, such as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), which causes the baby to appear bluish and breathing faster. Therefore, please consult a doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy. SERTRALINE may be excreted in human milk. Please consult a doctor if you are a breastfeeding mother. SERTRALINE should be used with caution in elderly patients as there is an increased risk of low sodium levels in the blood. Â If you have any self-harming or suicidal thoughts before taking SERTRALINE, inform your doctor as they may worsen in the initial days of taking SERTRALINE. Do not take SERTRALINE with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as moclobemide and methylene blue to treat depression and opioids as it may cause severe adverse effects.