Zoloft is used for the relief of the symptoms of depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (also called OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (also called PTSD) in adults. Zoloft may also be prescribed for the treatment of OCD in children (ages 6-12) and adolescents (ages 12-17). Zoloft is administered orally in the form of a tablet. Prescription instructions normally specify administration once daily. It may be taken with or without food. Follow prescription instructions carefully. Zoloft is not to be administered in dosages different from the ones prescribed by your doctor. Even if your condition improves, continue the treatment with Zoloft. Treatment with Zoloft must not be terminated without consulting your doctor first, especially if large doses have been administered over a long period of time. Gradual dosage reduction is recommended. In order for Zoloft to exercise its full effect, it must be taken regularly over a period of a few weeks.
Warnings Precautions
If you have liver or kidney disease; suffer from seizures, mania or have suicidal thoughts, consult your doctor first before taking Zoloft. Dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be required if you suffer from any of the above-listed conditions. In some case the treatment with Zoloft might not be recommended at all. Zoloft is in the C FDA pregnancy category, meaning that its effect on the fetus is unknown. It is also not known whether Zoloft is passed onto breast milk. If you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment, or you are breast-feeding, do not administer Zoloft without consulting your doctor first.
Missing a Dose
If your prescription specifies that Zoloft must be used once daily, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. Skip the missed dose if, in accordance with doctor’s instructions, you are taking Zoloft once a day at bedtime and you do not remember the missed dose until the morning after. Never take two doses at the same time in order to catch up.
Possible Side Effects
An allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing; throat congestion; 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 are among the serious side effects of Zoloft. In such cases discontinue the treatment with Zoloft, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately. Continue taking Zoloft and consult your doctor in case you experience any of the following less severe side effects of Zoloft: headaches; tremor, nervousness, or anxiety; nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or appetite or weight alterations; sleepiness or insomnia; or decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm. Should any symptoms occur that appear unusual or are particularly irritating, consult your doctor as other side effects than the ones listed above are possible.
Storage
Store at 25?°C (77?°F). Variations in temperature between 15?° and 30?°C (59?° – 86?°F) are permitted.
Overdose
Nausea, vomiting, tremor, seizures, agitation, drowsiness, hyperactivity, and diluted pupils are among the symptoms of a Zoloft overdose. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.
More Information
Zoloft may cause dizziness or drowsiness and hazardous activities should be avoided during treatment. Driving and operating machinery should be exercised with caution and should be avoided it you feel dizzy. Alcohol may increase drowsiness or dizziness during treatment with Zoloft and should be consumed in moderation.
Zoloft resources:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/sertral.htm
http://www.mentalhealth.com/drug/p30-z02.html
http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/DVH/Uses/0,3915,606%7CZoloft,00.html
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