In this post we will go over some of the more commonly reported side effects for the prescription drug sertraline.
Keep in mind that this list of side effects only includes side effects that have been reported to the FDA. Not all side effects get reported, so all patients are encouraged to report any and all perceived side effects from any medications to their health care professional immediately.
What is it?
Sertraline is an anti-depressant that is classified as a so-called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Sertraline is believed to work by adjusting chemical imbalance in the brain—imbalance it is believed may be leading to one or more of several psychological disorders, ranging from depression, panic, and anxiety, to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Commonly reported side effects
- Decreased sexual desire
- Inability to discharge semen (in men)
- Acidic stomach
- Belching
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Cramps
- Problems sleeping
Less commonly reported side effects
- Increased sweating
- Increased thirst
- Lack of energy
- Loss of bladder control
- Aggressive reaction
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
- Confusion
- Convulsions
- Dryness of the mouth
- Restlessness
- Shivering
- Overactive reflexes
- Fever
- Anxiety or Agitation
- Changes in vision
- Cloudy urine
- Frequent urge to urinat
- Difficult, burning, or painful urination
- Constipation
Sertraline is the chemical name of the drug and it may be sold as a generic under this name. It has also been sold under the brand name Zoloft.
