What are the Side Effects of Sertraline?

Sertraline, commonly known by its brand name Zoloft, is a medication used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and some other mental health conditions. While it can be very effective for many people, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects. Understanding these side effects can help you manage them better and ensure that you get the most out of your treatment.

### Common Side Effects

When you first start taking sertraline, you might experience some common side effects. These often include:

– **Headache**: A common early side effect that usually subsides over time.
– **Nausea**: Feeling sick to your stomach, which can sometimes lead to vomiting.
– **Fatigue**: Feeling tired or lacking energy.
– **Constipation**: Difficulty passing stools or feeling like you need to go but can’t.
– **Dry mouth**: A feeling of dryness in your mouth.
– **Sleepiness or drowsiness**: Feeling more tired than usual or having trouble staying awake.
– **Nervousness**: Feeling anxious or on edge.

### Less Common Side Effects

Some people might experience less common side effects, which can include:

– **Agitation or anxiety**: Feeling restless or more anxious than usual.
– **Bladder pain**: Discomfort or pain when urinating.
– **Changes in vision**: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.
– **Flushing or redness of the skin**: Feeling hot or noticing redness on your skin.
– **Increased appetite**: Feeling hungrier than usual.
– **Pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones**: Discomfort in these areas.

### Rare but Serious Side Effects

While rare, some serious side effects can occur. These include:

– **Severe allergic reactions**: Symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
– **Suicidal thoughts**: In some cases, especially in young people, sertraline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.
– **Serious liver problems**: Elevated liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage.

### Managing Side Effects

If you experience any side effects, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you manage these effects or adjust your medication if necessary. Here are some tips to help manage common side effects:

– **Stay hydrated**: Drink plenty of water to help with nausea and dry mouth.
– **Eat small meals**: This can help manage nausea and stomach discomfort.
– **Get enough rest**: Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule to combat fatigue.
– **Exercise gently**: Light physical activity can help improve mood and energy levels.

Remember, while side effects can be uncomfortable, they often decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication. If you have concerns or questions, always consult with your healthcare provider. They are there to support you throughout your treatment.