Other problems include severe headache, dry mouth, constipation, sweating, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction. Instead, talk to your doctor about switching to an antidepressant associated with weight loss or making any eating or exercise changes to help stave off the pounds while taking Zoloft. With addiction, a drug continues to be taken even if its causing harm.). Protect them from dust, sharp sunlight, or any other allergen that might cause even more discomfort by making your eyes red, itchy or watery. Smoking can damage your optic nerve itself and its smoke can also irritate your eyes. December 2016. Sertraline, which goes by the brand name Zoloft, is a common antidepressant. The first part of the rehabilitation process is detoxification (or detox). Before you take Zoloft, its important to discuss your health history with your medical professional. If youre wondering how to pay for Zoloft, you can talk with your medical professional or pharmacist. 2009;21(4):445-454. doi:10.1176/jnp.2009.21.4.445. If you have MDD, there are also other alternatives to Zoloft for treating MDD in addition to Lexapro. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. In most cases, antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds help people sleep better. Sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), tadalafil (Cialis) and avanafil (Stendra) are oral medications that reverse erectile dysfunction by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a . Yes, zoloft may cause pain in your eyes. Professional treatment programs are available across the country where inpatient rehabilitation and medical detox can save lives. The initial dosage of Zoloft is generally 25-50mg, depending on the age of the patient and the illness being treated. online counseling search through BetterHelp. You're, Author of An Unquiet Mind who lives with bipolar disorder shares advice for healing on the Inside Mental Health podcast. You can also discuss other treatments, forms of support, and resources that may benefit you. The antidepressant is super-commonbut it's not for everyone. The impact of marijuana on antidepressant treatment in adolescents: clinical and pharmacologic considerations. But weight loss has been reported in clinical studies with children taking Zoloft. Make sure you keep your blood sugar level close to the normal ranges. Sponsored Online Therapy Can Help. We will learn how your antidepressant can have a negative impact on your eyes and will also learn about other ocular side effects of zoloft. For most people, headaches go away after a week or two as your body adjusts to the medication, she explains. Vitamin A, also known as Retinol, is essential for your eye health. Zoloft can cause nerve damage and increase intraocular pressure which can compromise your vision and can make things look blurry. This person could be a family member or a friend. As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided. Zoloft can cause increased thoughts of suicide, especially among young people. It is available as tablets and an oral solution. Nighttime sweating is a common side effects of SSRIs, and Zoloft is one of the drugs where its more common, says Dr. Hermann. As with any medication, the possible benefits of the medication should outweigh the risks of taking the drug, including the risk of overdose. They include nausea, sexual problems, weight gain and insomnia. Symptoms caused by an overdose can include: If you believe youve taken too much Zoloft, call your medical professional right away. Make sure you add vitamin A rich foods in your diet like carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes etc. If youre prescribed Zoloft tablets, its recommended that you swallow the tablet(s) with a full glass of water. You've said yes to therapy, now how in the world do you get started? Coping With Sexual Side Effects From Antidepressants, Lexapro (Escitalopram) Side Effects: What You Should Know. Zoloft belongs to a class of antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft is used to help manage symptoms, but it does not cure any illnesses. The FDA has mandated that all SSRI antidepressants carry a warning contained in a bold black box regarding the potential for increased suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. Call your doctor if you experience any new or worsening psychiatric symptoms, including: You should seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any of the following: If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for support and assistance from a trained counselor. Verywell Mind's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Treatment is available. Be aware that any antidepressant has the possibility of triggering hypomania or mania. Serious Side Effects Before Taking Zoloft Zoloft (sertraline) belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. You can also talk with your medical professional or pharmacist. Severe skin complications in patients treated with antidepressants: a literature review. Although Zoloft is sometimes used in children, its only official FDA indication for this age group is in children with OCD who are six years old or older. Tried all, Levitra is effective with least side effects. Also keep in mind that alcohol can cause liver damage. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Such conditions usually lead to discontinuation of treatment and it could take up to 18 months to finally recover from these side effects. drugs whose amounts in the body may be increased by Zoloft, including: the cough and cold drug dextromethorphan (Delsym). Common side effects of this medication include nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth. These drugs include: Keep in mind that we havent listed all types of drugs that may interact with Zoloft. Uses. Having in-person support may help you feel more at ease. You should also not stop taking Zoloft all at once to avoid, Practice caution if you are using any other medications which may increase your levels of serotonin. It might take up to 18 months, but it does go away. Prozac (fluoxetine) is a prescription capsule used for OCD, depression, bulimia, and panic disorder. Here's how it works. serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your doctor will suggest the next step, whether to lower the dose or to just stop using it altogether. Heidi Moawad is a neurologist and expert in the field of brain health and neurological disorders. Around 10-20% of people taking zoloft have reported some kind of visual side effect, usually blurred vision. Some side effects of Zoloft may be more common in males* than in females.*. They may also be able to recommend tips on how to help prevent and ease side effects. If your headaches are persistent, Dr. Qureshi recommends talking to your doctor, as its possible you may tolerate a different medication better. 2013;4:45. doi:10.3389%2Ffphar.2013.00045. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or . Your medical professional or a pharmacist can provide more details about taking Zoloft to treat anxiety. Instead, you and your medical professional will work together to lower your dosage slowly over time. If you do find that you have difficulty falling or staying asleep while taking Zoloft, practicing good sleep habits can also be helpful. Marcia Purse is a mental health writer and bipolar disorder advocate who brings strong research skills and personal experiences to her writing. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that has been coined one of the "feel good chemicals.". Its important to keep in mind that some of the conditions Zoloft is used to treat, such as major depressive disorder and pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, can also cause appetite changes. (2008) Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: a review of its effects on intraocular pressure, Ying-Xi Zhao and Xiang-Wu Chen Diabetes and risk of glaucoma: systematic review and a Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies, Ho Yin Ho et al. If you feel as if youre having a medical emergency, its important to call 911 (or your local emergency number) right away. For this reason, your medical professional likely wont change your Zoloft dosage more than once per week, if needed. Its important to follow the instructions your medical professional provides. Medical help should be sought at once at the sign of any new or worsening symptoms like: (2012). Researchers suggest that there is a link between diabetes and glaucoma. Read our. Zoloft has a boxed warning, which is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Major depressive disorder Anxiety and panic disorders (feelings of anxiety, fear and unwanted thoughts) Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Social anxiety disorder Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Suddenly stopping your medication can lead to withdrawal or a return of your symptoms. The most common side effects of Zoloft include: Although uncommon, all SSRI antidepressants have some potential to cause weight gain. Note: If youre prescribed the Zoloft oral solution, its important to know that it contains 12% alcohol. The team wants you to get the best care possible. What Type of Nerve Pain Medication Is Right for Me? Weve listed some helpful suggestions below. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. . You may also want to visit the website of Zolofts manufacturer to see if support options are available. You and your practitioner can weigh the benefits of taking Zoloft with the side effects to decide if you should continue taking it. Verywell Mind articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and mental healthcare professionals. Zoloft has been prescribed for children for conditions besides OCD, including depression.For adults, Zoloft is sometimes used off-label to prevent neuropathic pain and as migraine prophylaxis. Both Zoloft and Lexapro (escitalopram) belong to a group of antidepressant drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The mean Zoloft dose for completers was 146 mg/day and 151 mg/day, respectively, for Studies PSTD-1 and PSTD-2. We dont know why drugs like Zoloft have sexual side effects, but people can experience things like difficulty orgasming, a lack of sex drive, or the inability to get or maintain an erection. For some people, the benefits of the medicine will outweigh the negative effects on their sex life; for others, a change in medication may be necessary. Medically reviewed January 20, 2022 Table of contents Differences Between Lexapro and Zoloft How Should They Be Taken Side Effects Drug Interactions Cost and Insurance Information Warnings Withdrawal Symptoms When To Seek Medical Attention Which One Is Better When To Talk To A Doctor Share: For information on other mild side effects of the drug, we suggest that you talk with your medical professional or pharmacist. Ocular side effects can also start to appear when you increase the dose or suddenly go from lower to higher doses. Ashley Mateo is a writer, editor, and UESCA- and RRCA-certified running coach who has contributed to Runners World, Bicycling, Women's Health, Health, Shape, Self, and more. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant treatment discontinuation syndrome: a review of the clinical evidence and the possible mechanisms involved. They can be prescribed to treat some of the same conditions, as well as some different ones. If you have headaches that bother you or dont go away while taking Zoloft, you can talk with your medical professional. These side effects can include tiredness, diarrhea, and dizziness. How does Zoloft work, what conditions can it be used to treat, what are some of the possible side effects, and what else should you know if you've been prescribed this medication? But educating your children about your condition, learning to manage your symptoms, and, Each stage of depression reflects symptom severity. It is among the most prescribed psychiatric drugs in the U.S. What are some common questions about Zoloft? For more complete information on possible side effects of Zoloft, you can talk with your medical professional or pharmacist. If you develop severe side effects, you should seek prompt medical attention. Zoloft is part of a class of drugs called SSRIs, or selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors. 2014;31(2):9297. Any antidepressant intervention has the potential to flip someone whos vulnerable, who has bipolar disorder rather than depression, into a mania, which is why its so important to make sure you have the right diagnosis before starting medication.. If you have questions about this boxed warning, youre encouraged to talk with your medical professional. Other SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Paxil (paroxetine), Celexa (citalopram), Luvox (fluvoxamine), andLexapro(escitalopram). In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene and hydration, you could consider trying a toothpaste or mouthwash specifically designed for dry mouth.. Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. They go away with time. These factors can include other health conditions you may have, other drugs you may be taking, and your age. Obviously, you want your mood to change while taking an antidepressant or anti-anxiety drug. You may also experience swelling under your skin, often in your lips, eyelids, hands, or feet. To learn more about the similarities and differences between Zoloft and Prozac, you can refer to this comparison article. You need to rest your eyes to avoid pain and discomfort. For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. Headaches are common when you first start taking Zoloft, or when you increase the dose, says Dr. Qureshi. Has less drug interactions than sertraline (Zoloft) Has less side effects than paroxetine (Paxil) Can be used in children as young as 12 years old (for depression only) Can be taken with or without food. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911. Zoloft is approved to some types of anxiety, specifically: Its not entirely understood how Zoloft works to treat anxiety, but it may work by affecting the balance of certain chemicals in your brain. It is reported by 10-20% of people taking zoloft. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. Its important to not stop taking Zoloft without first speaking with your medical professional. sexual side effects , such as: erectile dysfunction (inability to get or maintain an erection . Sometimes people can develop rashes or increased skin sensitivity while taking Zoloft, says Naema Qureshi, MD, a psychiatrist at Brooklyn Minds. By Nancy Schimelpfening You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. Psych Central does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Penile anesthesia (loss of sexual sensation in the penis) Decrease or loss of sensation in the vagina and nipples. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. If you experience occasional headaches while starting the medication, you can try common over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol.. Hypertensive agents can also cause ocular side effects like dry eyes and blurred vision. You should talk to your doctor if you are concerned about side effects; never stop taking your medication suddenly, as you might experience withdrawal or a worsening of your symptoms. Zoloft is approved to treat both social anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder. Dont take too much vitamin A, as its a fat soluble vitamin and can get accumulated in your body for a long time. If you are planning to stop taking Zoloft, its important that you discuss a schedule with your healthcare provider. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Statins can also cause visual side effects. Experimented and found smallest imaginable dose that works well but with least side effects. A generic medication is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Zoloft is available as a generic drug called sertraline. But the mood or behavior change that were most worried about as mental health professionals is increased depression or suicidal thoughts or a switch from depression to mania, says Dr. Hermann. Does Zoloft cause weight gain or weight loss? Or if you suddenly stop taking Zoloft, headache could be a symptom of discontinuation syndrome. I'm a fitness professional and my stamina definitely took a hit at the beginning. It is recommended to stay at home if your eyes are really bothering you, and even if you go out, try to protect your eyes from dust or pollution. Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, youre not alone. If you have symptoms of an allergic reaction to Zoloft, its important to call your medical professional immediately. If Levitra is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Zoloft interacts with some prescription medications. Zoloft; Descriptions. Works well for the depression, was able to take away that crippling weight. To do this, youll use the dropper that comes with your solution to measure your dose. The Side effects specific to women and men section just below has details about possible sexual side effects of Zoloft. 26 hours is considered a long half-life. It's important to pay attention to dry mouth because it can increase your risk of cavities and other oral issues, she says. Zoloft ; Show More Show Less . Also, many people lose their appetite and lose weight when theyre depressed, so it may just be a result of them feeling better when theyre on the drug. However, some strategies can help people manage this side effect, such as taking the medication in the morning. The resultant. You and your practitioner can weigh the benefits of taking Zoloft with the side effects to decide if you should continue taking it. Most symptoms tend to be minimal and generally improve over time. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4723200/#!po=6.25000, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26139049/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19587851/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5596230/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23040863/, https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diabetes-eye-care, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5119484/, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/smokers, Jonathan Lochhead, Consultant Ophthalmologist Keep an eye on the SSRI: help avoid possible sight-threatening adverse events, J Lochhead. Learn more about the similarities and differences between Zoloft and prozac, you and medical. 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