Pros
Effective and safe for short-term and long-term use
Has a lower potential for drug interactions than other SSRIs
Less likely to cause sedation compared to other antidepressants
FDA-approved to treat OCD in children older than 6 years
Zoloft is an antidepressant that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRI medications work by balancing serotonin levels in the brain and nerves.
Zoloft is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Zoloft is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including sertraline.
Zoloft may be prescribed as a tablet or oral suspension. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Zoloft, be sure to complete the full course of the antidepressant unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antidepressant may not fully treat your mental health condition.
There are several FDA-approved uses for Zoloft, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe Zoloft for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder. Zoloft can help improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy, which can help restore your interest in daily life.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat social anxiety disorder.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. It may help reduce the urge to perform unwanted tasks (compulsions) that interfere with daily life.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat panic disorder. It can help decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the frequency of panic attacks.
Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat post-traumatic stress disorder.
Effective and safe for short-term and long-term use
Has a lower potential for drug interactions than other SSRIs
Less likely to cause sedation compared to other antidepressants
FDA-approved to treat OCD in children older than 6 years
Some people may experience increased appetite
Can cause restlessness or anxiety in some, especially early in treatment
Combining with other serotonergic medications can be dangerous
May increase risk of bleeding, especially when taken with NSAIDs
The side effects associated with taking Zoloft are typically mild. Most Zoloft side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.
Zoloft has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, loss of appetite, and indigestion
Increased sweating
Tremor
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Serotonin syndrome
Vision changes or eye pain
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of Zoloft in young children under age 6 is not recommended.
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Zoloft prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Zoloft can come in different doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The starting dose for most mental health conditions typically ranges from 25 mg to 50 mg once daily.
Zoloft has 642 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medications.
Possible drug interactions with Zoloft include:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen and aspirin
Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)
Klonopin (clonazepam)
Xanax (alprazolam)
Drinking alcohol while taking sertraline may increase your risk of adverse effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol.
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another prescription drug, they may suggest SSRI or antidepressant drugs in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Depending on your pharmacy, Zoloft costs around $416 for thirty 50 mg tablets without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as sertraline HCL, offer an affordable alternative.
To refill your Zoloft prescription online, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Avoid drinking alcohol or using recreational drugs while taking antidepressant drugs. They may decrease the benefits of SSRI medications and increase the adverse effects of mental health medications.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking sertraline. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how your new prescription medication affects you.
Do not stop taking sertraline without talking to your doctor. Stopping Zoloft suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Avoid taking Zoloft if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Allergic reaction or sensitivity to aspirin
Bipolar disorder (manic depression)
Heart disease or high blood pressure
Liver or kidney disease
If you miss a dose of Zoloft, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
If you've taken too much Zoloft, call your doctor immediately or contact your local poison control center.
Yes, it is safe to drink coffee while taking sertraline. However, caffeine may affect your mental health.
Step 1
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Zoloft prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
$16.99/month
First month free
Copay
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
$16.99/month
First month free
$129
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) tablets. Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/019839S74S86S87_20990S35S44S45lbl.pdf
National Alliance on Mental Illness. Sertraline (Zoloft). Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Sertraline-(Zoloft)
MedlinePlus. Sertraline. Accessed on September 25, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697048.html
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.