*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
In order to get a Zoloft prescription online, you will first need to find an online psychiatry provider for an evaluation. For in-person options, your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a prescriber who can evaluate you and prescribe Zoloft.
If you are looking to access your prescription online, we have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Brightside Health, Talkiatry, or Circle Medical that prescribe antidepressants like Zoloft, and found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider feels Zoloft is a good fit for your anxiety or depression symptoms, they may prescribe you Zoloft online.
Boxed Warning: Sertraline (Zoloft) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people
Sertraline, the active ingredient in Zoloft, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Sertraline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with sertraline and any other medications before starting treatment.
Key Takeaways
To get prescribed Zoloft online, start by getting an evaluation from an online provider who can prescribe antidepressants, such as Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical.
Zoloft alternatives may be necessary for some to consider, including other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants.
Brand name Zoloft can cost between $411-$487 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available without insurance. Zoloft coupons, savings cards, and discounts may all help lower costs.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
How to Get Zoloft Online or In Person
To get prescribed Zoloft online or in person, you will first need an evaluation to determine whether it is a good fit for your depression symptoms. The process of getting a diagnosis and potentially prescribed Zoloft online or in person may vary for people of different ages.
It is important to find an online provider who can prescribe antidepressants like Zoloft. For in-person prescription options, a good place to start is with your primary care provider.
How to Get a Zoloft Prescription Online
Here is how to get Zoloft prescribed to you online in six steps.
Step 1: Book an Appointment With an Online Psychiatry Provider
The first step is to book an appointment with an online provider that can prescribe antidepressant medications like Zoloft, such as Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical. We have thoroughly reviewed these platforms, and in using the services ourselves, we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation.
Step 2: Get a Psychiatric Evaluation & Discuss Your Symptoms
Your provider will evaluate your overall health history, your mental health symptoms, and any treatments you may have tried in the past. They may also speak with others you interact with regularly, such as family members. This is important because you may show symptoms differently in various settings. This discussion will help the provider know whether Zoloft may be safe and appropriate for you.
Step 3: Get Treatment Recommendations
Your provider will develop a treatment plan to help improve your symptoms and quality of life. They may recommend behavioral therapy or medication such as Zoloft, or possibly both. If Zoloft looks like it could help you, your provider will discuss the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication.
Step 4: Fill Your Online Zoloft Prescription
If offered, your prescriber will give you a prescription, which you may fill through their online platform. You may be able to get Zoloft medication delivered to your home, but it can vary widely depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatric platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Step 5: Schedule Follow-up Appointments
If prescribed Zoloft, your doctor will recommend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and potential side effects, adjusting your medication as needed.
Step 6 : Discuss Prescription Refills With Your Provider
Talk to your prescriber about how frequently you may refill your Zoloft medication. This timeframe may depend on how well you respond to the medication, if you experience side effects, or if you may need to consider another medication. It may also depend on how the platform manages medication delivery, such as offering 90-day supplies.
How to Get a Zoloft Prescription In Person
In six steps, here is how to get Zoloft prescribed to you in person.
Step 1: Book an Appointment With a Psychiatric Provider
A good place to start for an in-person psychiatric evaluation is with your primary care provider. This may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If they determine it is needed, they can refer you or your child to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist. They can further evaluate whether to include Zoloft as a part of the treatment plan for you.
Step 2: Get an Evaluation & Discuss Your Symptoms
Your provider will evaluate your overall health history, your mental health symptoms, and any treatments you may have tried in the past. They may also speak with others you interact with regularly, such as family members. This is important because you may show symptoms differently in various settings. This discussion will help the provider know whether Zoloft may be safe and appropriate for you.
Step 3: Get Treatment Recommendations
Your provider will develop a treatment plan to help improve your symptoms and quality of life. They may recommend behavioral therapy or medication such as Zoloft, or possibly both. If it seems Zoloft could help you, your provider will discuss the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication.
Step 4: Choose Where to Get Your Zoloft Prescription Filled
If offered, your prescriber will give you a prescription that you may fill at your preferred local pharmacy or an online platform. You may be able to get Zoloft delivered to your home, but it can vary widely depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Step 5: Schedule Follow-up Appointments
If prescribed Zoloft, your doctor will recommend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and potential side effects, adjusting your medication as needed.
Step 6: Discuss Prescription Refills With Your Provider
Talk to your prescriber about how frequently you may refill your Zoloft medication. This timeframe may depend on how well you respond to the medication, if you experience side effects, or if you may need to consider another medication.
How Much Does Zoloft Cost?
The cost of Zoloft can vary based on several factors, including your location, the pharmacy you use, and whether you have insurance, as well as on the dosage and length of prescription (number of days) your doctor prescribes.
Zoloft Prices
The cost of Zoloft currently ranges from $411-$487 for a 30-day supply of 25 milligrams without insurance. Your Zoloft prescription may cost much less with insurance depending on your plan and coverage. A similar prescription of the generic form of Zoloft, sertraline hydrochloride, costs $9-$25. The cost of Zoloft will also vary based on the dosage and amount prescribed. Coupons for Zoloft are often available and may reduce your out of pocket costs.
Note: Cash prices listed are derived from multiple sources. The prices listed are an estimate only and cannot be guaranteed. For exact prices, please contact the pharmacy.
Walmart
$411
Walgreens
$413
CVS / Target
$417
RiteAid
$414
Kroger
$437
Costco
$487
Hy-Vee
$467
Publix
$477
Albertsons
$447
Popular Choices for Online Psychiatry
Talkiatry – Safe, virtual mental health care from doctors who take insurance. Most psychiatry visits cost patients $30 or less* Take a short assessment.
Circle Medical – anxiety and depression treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical
*Includes copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 Visits. Excludes no shows. **On average. Actual appointment times vary by state and individual patient.
Does Insurance Cover Zoloft?
Depending on the company, your insurance plan may cover your Zoloft prescription. It is important to note that policies can change coverage at any time and some may only cover a prescription for generic sertraline. Commercial insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE all have different requirements and policies for medication coverage. Contact your insurance provider directly to learn whether your prescription may be covered.
Here are online psychiatric platforms that accept insurance:
- Circle Medical takes insurance and offers same-day or next-day appointments for non-emergency mental health needs.
- Brightside Health accepts many major insurance plans, offering online medication management at affordable prices across most of the United States.
- Talkiatry is only available to those with insurance, but it makes using insurance for online psychiatry services simple.
Who Is Zoloft a Good Fit For?
Getting an evaluation from a psychiatric provider is the first step to understanding if a Zoloft prescription may be helpful. Zoloft is thought to work by impacting serotonin levels in the brain, which may help reduce symptoms of several conditions. Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat depression, OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, PMDD, and panic disorder.
Below are signs you may benefit from a Zoloft prescription:2
Adults with depression
- Persistent low mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Insomnia or sleeping too much nearly every day
Adults with OCD
- Obsessive thoughts that are intrusive and unwanted, such as fear of germs, harming others, making mistakes, things being “just right”
- Compulsive rituals and routines involving checking, touching, avoiding, or organizing
Children and teens with OCD
- Children – Rule following, perfectionism, and holes in papers from erasing mistakes
- Teens – Sudden need for dependency and avoidance of social events including dating
- OCD can be misdiagnosed as ADHD and can cause more severe symptoms
This is not a complete list of symptoms of the conditions Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of Zoloft with your doctor.
Other conditions that Zoloft is FDA-approved to treat include:
Adults
- Panic disorder
- PTSD
- Social anxiety
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Who Should Not Take Zoloft?
Each person is different, and while Zoloft is a commonly prescribed medication for depression, it may not be a fit for everyone. Zoloft is safe and effective for the treatment of several conditions, but there are exceptions to consider.
People who should take extra caution before using Zoloft include:1
- Children and teenagers
- Those age 65 and older
- Pregnant and breastfeeding parents
- Those with other mental health conditions
- Those with certain medical conditions
Not all possible reactions may occur, and this is not a complete list of potential risks of taking Zoloft. Discuss with your doctor to see if Zoloft is right for you.
Zoloft Alternatives
There are many Zoloft alternatives available. All classes of antidepressants can help reduce depression symptoms, though potential risks and benefits can vary. Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical are reliable online psychiatric providers that offer Zoloft alternatives.
SSRI and SNRI Antidepressant Medications
Alternatives to Zoloft include other SSRIs such Lexapro, Paxil, and Prozac. Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) include Cymbalta and Effexor. SSRIs and SNRIs are usually the first antidepressants used because of their safety and effectiveness.
Other Antidepressant Medications
Having other alternatives to Zoloft is important for those who don’t respond well enough to SSRIs or SNRIs. Atypical antidepressants, which include Wellbutrin and Remeron, work differently to improve symptoms and don’t fit into a formal category.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are older medications with more side effects. However, they may be helpful for those who need to avoid or can’t tolerate other types of antidepressants.
Generic Zoloft
The generic version of Zoloft may be prescribed as an alternative to the brand name for several reasons. It contains sertraline, the same active ingredient as the brand name medication. The generic form also has the same treatment benefits as brand name Zoloft and is more affordable. If you are looking for an online provider that can prescribe Zoloft alternatives, both Talkiatry and Brightside offer antidepressant medications for those it is a good fit for.
Are There Over-the-Counter Zoloft Options?
Currently, there are no FDA-approved over-the-counter treatments for depression. Many over-the-counter and dietary supplements claim to relieve depression. However, quality studies are limited and have yet to show whether such supplements improve depression symptoms.
Also, these supplements are not regulated for safety the way medications are. Some supplements can interact with other medications you may be taking. Check with reputable sources and your healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
Questions to Ask Your Provider
If you think getting a Zoloft prescription may help your symptoms, one place to start is by talking to your primary healthcare provider. They know your health history and may be able to prescribe medication for your condition, if needed. Zoloft is most often used as a treatment for depression, but is also FDA-approved to treat OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, PMDD, and panic disorder.
And if your provider thinks you’d be better served by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, they can make a referral. Alternatively, if you do not have a primary healthcare provider, an online psychiatry provider is a good place to start.
To prepare for your first appointment, spend time collecting important information. Write down your main symptoms, how they affect your life, and what good symptom relief would look like. Describe your goals for treatment, discussing your interest and concerns about using medications.
Questions to ask your care team about being prescribed Zoloft include:
- What are the potential benefits and risks of taking Zoloft for my specific symptoms?
- How long will it take for Zoloft to start working, and how long will I need to take it?
- What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Zoloft?
- Can Zoloft be taken with other medications I am currently taking?
- Are there any activities or substances that I should avoid while taking Zoloft?
- How will we monitor my progress while taking Zoloft?
- Are there any other treatment options that I should consider in addition to or instead of Zoloft?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your prescriber will share important information about your Zoloft prescription. They will explain how to take and store your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and what to do about side effects. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Zoloft.
- Take Zoloft as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Stopping abruptly or taking too much can be harmful.
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. Zoloft has a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Zoloft?
Zoloft (sertraline) is prescribed to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
How Does Zoloft Work?
Zoloft is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which may improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression for some.3
Who can Prescribe Zoloft?
Zoloft can be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider, such as primary care physicians, physician assistants, psychiatrists, neurologists, or nurse practitioners.
Can You Get Zoloft Prescription Refills Online?
Yes, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and some online primary care platforms, such as Circle Medical, can prescribe antidepressants like Zoloft and provide refills.
Can You Get Zoloft Without Therapy?
Yes, Zoloft can be a standalone treatment.
Can I Get Zoloft Medication Delivered to My Home?
You may be able to get Zoloft medication delivered to your home, but it can vary depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Can You Get Zoloft From a Walk-in Clinic?
An urgent care clinic cannot prescribe anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants like Zoloft. These providers are not able to monitor and follow up with patients long-term for treatments like these. If you have a prescription already, contact your primary provider or local pharmacy for help. If you do not have a prescription, you will need a full psychiatric evaluation first. An urgent care or walk-in clinic is not equipped to provide this type of evaluation.4
How Much Does Zoloft Cost Without Insurance?
The cash cost of brand name Zoloft can range from $278-$304 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available.
How Much Is Zoloft Without Insurance?
The cash cost of sertraline, generic Zoloft, can range from $9-$25 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available.
How Can I Get Zoloft Prescribed Without Insurance?
Online psychiatry platforms like Brightside Health and Circle Medical provide evaluations and may offer a Zoloft prescription if needed. Both platforms accept cash pay if you don’t have insurance. Available services depend on a person’s age, state, and other factors.
Can You Get Zoloft Without a Prescription?
No, Zoloft is only available with a prescription.
Is There a Generic Version of Zoloft?
Yes, a generic version of Zoloft is available and has the active ingredient sertraline.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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ZOLOFT- sertraline hydrochloride tablet, film coated. (August 15, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/
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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA.
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Sertraline – StatPearls. (February 13, 2023). NCBI.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689/
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Spencer, Aiden. (May 19, 2016). What Type of Medication Can an Urgent Care Doctor Prescribe? AJMC.com. Retrieved from https://www.ajmc.com/view/what-type-of-medication-can-an-urgent-care-doctor-prescribe
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated the cost information in FAQ under “How Much Does Zoloft Cost Without Insurance?” section.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated formatting and added new article content including drug overview summary block, cost table, and alternatives comparison slider. Also updated “Questions to Ask Your Provider” and “Prescriber Tips” page features.
Author: No Change
Medical Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Added new sections titled “How Much Does Zoloft Cost?”, “What Can I Expect When Getting a Zoloft Prescription?”, “Prescriber’s Tips”, “FAQs”, “Does Insurance Cover Zoloft?”. Revised sections titled “Do I Need a Zoloft Prescription?”, “How to Get Zoloft Prescribed to You Online & In Person”, “Who Should Avoid Zoloft?”, “What Are Zoloft Alternatives?”, “Are There Over-the-Counter Zoloft Options?”, “Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get Zoloft”, Reviewed and added relevant sources. Edited for readability and clarity.
Author: Osama Tariq, MD
Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
