Zoloft is an SSRI medication that is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Zoloft is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment option for anxiety. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking Zoloft for anxiety.
What Is Zoloft (Sertraline)?
Zoloft (sertraline) is a medication that is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin.1 By increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, Zoloft can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Zoloft is typically used to treat adults with depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. Zoloft may also be used for children over the age of six and adolescents with certain conditions, although its safety and effectiveness in these cases has not been established.2 Zoloft has not been specifically studied in seniors, but it may be used in this population with caution.
Zoloft is generally considered to be safe for use during pregnancy, although it may cause side effects in some people.2 It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking Zoloft during pregnancy, and to follow the recommended dosing and treatment plan.
Why Is Zoloft Used to Treat Anxiety Disorders?
While Zoloft does not cure anxiety, it can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms, making it easier for individuals to manage and carry out their daily activities. Zoloft is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety disorders, which may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and other medications.
Zoloft may be especially helpful for certain types of anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder. It may also be useful in preventing panic attacks and in the treatment of specific phobias. Zoloft is an on-label medication for anxiety, meaning that it has been specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of anxiety disorders.
Some individuals may turn to Zoloft over other anxiety medications because it is generally considered to be safe and effective. Other anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines) work by reducing symptoms short-term, but do not work long-term. These medications also carry significant risk of addiction and are controlled by DEA.3
The exact mechanisms by which SSRIs help reduce anxiety symptoms are not fully understood, but it is thought that the increased availability of serotonin may help improve mood, reduce feelings of worry and stress, and improve overall well-being. SSRIs may also help improve sleep and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, such as racing heart, rapid breathing, and trembling.
How to Take Zoloft for Anxiety
Zoloft is available in a number of forms, including tablets, capsules, and oral suspension (liquid). It is commonly prescribed in the tablet or capsule form and is taken once a day, either in the morning or evening. It is important to take Zoloft at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. The extended-release form of Zoloft, called Zoloft sustained-release (SR), is designed to be taken once a day, either in the morning or evening, and should not be crushed or chewed.
How Long Does it Take for Zoloft to Work For Anxiety?
It may take several weeks for Zoloft to start working. The exact length of time can vary depending on a number of factors, including the severity of your anxiety, your individual response to the medication, and any other treatment you may be receiving.
Zoloft Dosage For Anxiety
The effective dosage of Zoloft for treating anxiety symptoms varies based on a number of factors including age, the nature of the anxiety disorder, and the patient’s response to the medication. Doctors may start patients on a lower dosage and gradually increase it as needed to find the most effective dose. Similarly, doctors may start at different dosages depending on the mental health disorder that they are treating. For example, patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) are typically started at a higher dose.4 It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and to report any side effects or concerns you may have about your medication.
Can You Overdose on Zoloft?
If you believe you have taken too much Zoloft or have overdosed on the medication, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You can call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for help. Symptoms of an overdose on Zoloft may include dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, agitation, sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid heartbeat. In severe cases, an overdose on Zoloft may cause seizures or coma.
While it is possible to overdose on Zoloft, it is not common and the risk of overdose is generally low when the medication is taken as directed by a doctor. However, taking Zoloft in combination with other medications or substances that affect serotonin levels (such as other antidepressants or recreational drugs) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by high levels of serotonin in the body.
Side Effects of Zoloft While Treating Anxiety
Side effects of Zoloft that may be more noticeable when treating anxiety disorders include dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty sleeping. These may become more prevalent when starting treatment with Zoloft or when the dosage is increased, but they usually go away after the body adjusts to the medication. If these side effects persist or are severe, it is important to speak with your doctor about adjusting your dosage or trying a different medication.
It is essential to be aware of the potential for serious side reactions to Zoloft. You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as rapid heartbeat, fever, sweating, tremors, muscle spasms, and hallucinations.
Common Zoloft side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Nervousness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sexual dysfunction
Severe Zoloft side effects that may need immediate attention include:
- Allergic reactions, such as rash, hives, or difficulty breathing
- Severe or persistent nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Changes in behavior or thoughts, such as suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual weakness or fatigue
- Serotonin syndrome
Warnings & Associated Risks of Taking Zoloft for Anxiety
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Zoloft, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking Zoloft. Some studies have suggested that certain anxiety medications, including Zoloft, may be associated with an increased risk of birth defects when taken during pregnancy.3 However, the decision to take Zoloft during pregnancy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
There are other populations that should be mindful about taking Zoloft for anxiety, such as those with a history of bleeding disorders or those taking other medications that increase your body’s serotonin levels. It is important to inform your doctor about all medications and substances you are taking before starting Zoloft.
Substances to Avoid If You’re Taking Zoloft
Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Zoloft can change how Zoloft works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
It is important to inform your doctor about all medications and substances you are taking before starting Zoloft, as some may interfere with the effectiveness of Zoloft or increase the risk of side effects. It is especially important to be cautious about taking other medications for anxiety in combination with Zoloft, as this may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Substances that may interact with Zoloft include:
- Other antidepressants
- Aspirin
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Warfarin
- St. John’s Wort
- Illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines
- Some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications
- Some herbal supplements, such as ginseng and tryptophan
- Some medications used to treat migraines, such as triptans
Alternatives to Zoloft for Anxiety
There are several other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antidepressants that may be effective in treating anxiety disorders. Each of these medications may be more or less effective for different individuals and may have different side effect profiles. For example, Prozac and Paxil may be more effective for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder, while Lexapro may be better suited for those with generalized anxiety disorder.
Some of these medications may also carry additional side effects, such as weight gain or sexual dysfunction. It is important to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of these medications and to carefully follow their instructions for use.
Alternatives to Zoloft to treat anxiety include:
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Celexa (citalopram)
- Effexor (venlafaxine)
- Wellbutrin (bupropion)
Questions to Ask Your Health Team
Zoloft is a prescription medication that is prescribed by doctors, psychiatrists, or other healthcare providers who are licensed. If you are already taking or are thinking of starting Zoloft, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider about your treatment plan.
Questions to ask your care team about Zoloft include:
- What is the recommended dosage for my specific needs and how should I take the medication?
- How long should I expect to take Zoloft for my anxiety symptoms?
- Can I drink alcohol while taking Zoloft?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or if I experience side effects?
- Are there any potential risks or side effects I should be aware of?
- Are there any other medications or substances I should avoid while taking Zoloft?
- Is there anything else I should be aware of while taking Zoloft for my anxiety symptoms?
- What are the potential risks and benefits of taking Zoloft for my anxiety symptoms?
- Are there any alternative treatment options I should consider?
- How will my progress be monitored while taking Zoloft?
Final Thoughts
Zoloft can be an effective treatment for anxiety, especially when taken along with therapy. Before taking Zoloft, discuss a treatment plan with your doctor and care team to see if it’s the right option for you.
