General Information

Zoloft (sertraline HCl) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.

Zoloft has been approved for:

• major depressive disorder
• obsessive-compulsive disorder
• panic disorder
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

Clinical Results

In clinical trials with adult patients, Zoloft demonstrated significant reduction in frequency of panic attacks without regard to age, gender or race. Patients suffering from panic disorder experience recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. The more common symptoms include heart palpitations, sensations of shortness of breath, dizziness and fear of losing control or going crazy. Panic attacks, or the fear of them, can also result in worry, concern or even dramatic behavioral and lifestyle changes.

The approval of Zoloft for the treatment of PMDD is supported by two placebo-controlled trials involving 532 women diagnosed with the disorder. Zoloft was significantly more effective in improving emotional and behavioral symptoms of PMDD than placebo, regardless if the drug was taken continously or only during the premenstrual phase of the menstrual cycle. These symptoms included feelings of being depressed, hopeless or overwhelmed, and being angry or irritable and having conflicts with others. Those who were admistered Zoloft every day also noted improvement in physical symptoms including breast tenderness, bloating and headache.

Side Effects

Adverse events associated with the use of Zoloft may include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Upset stomach
• Trouble sleeping
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Sexual dysfunction

Mechanism of Action

Zoloft (sertraline HCl) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Zoloft helps correct the chemical imbalance of serotonin in the brain. The effectiveness of Zoloft is presumed to be linked to its inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin (5HT). Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that is involved in the transmission of messages between nerve cells.