Sertraline is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Sertraline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic or anxiety, obsessive or compulsive symptoms, or other psychiatric symptoms.

Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia.

Sertraline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Special precautions

Do not take sertraline if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) during the last 2 weeks. Serious, and sometimes fatal, reactions have occurred when these medicines have been used together.

Do not take sertraline if you are taking pimozide (Orap). A dangerous drug interaction could result.

Before taking sertraline, tell your doctor if you

• have liver disease;

• have kidney disease;

• suffer from seizures; or

• suffer from mania or have suicidal thoughts

Sertraline is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is unknown whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take sertraline without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether sertraline passes into breast milk. Do not take sertraline without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking sertraline and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• an irregular heartbeat or pulse;

• low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);

• high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or

• chills or fever

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking sertraline and talk to your doctor:

• headache;

• tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;

• nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;

• sleepiness or insomnia; or

• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Keep all appointment with your doctor.

Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.