Zoloft Side Effects
Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a class of antidepressants. Zoloft may be prescribed to patients with one or more psychological condition, such as depression, anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and panic attacks. Zoloft works to increase the brain’s production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that sends messages between nerve cells.
Like all medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Zoloft has undergone a number of large clinical trials to test its effectiveness and side effects. Like many antidepressants, Zoloft can cause a series of side effects that range in severity.
Zoloft Side Effects
All medications, including all antidepressants, have the potential for side effects; however, the range of side effects and how a patient responds to the medication varies widely. Some Zoloft patients experience no side effects whatsoever, others experience mild to moderate side effects, and some experience severe side effects.
Zoloft’s Most Common Side Effects
During clinical trials, some side effects were more commonly reported by patients taking Zoloft; these are Zoloft’s common side effects. Commonly reported Zoloft side effects are side effects reported in at least one percent of patients using Zoloft. These side effects fall into the following categories, based on the frequency they were reported:
• More than 20% of Zoloft patients reported experiencing unusual feelings of queasiness, sexual side effects, or diarrhea.
• Between 15% and 20% of Zoloft patients reported feelings of dizziness, excessive tiredness, or sleepiness. Dry mouth was also reported by this percentage of patients.
• Between 10% and 15% of Zoloft patients experienced trembling, loss of appetite, loss of sex drive, and upset stomach.
• Between 2% and 10% of patients reported the side effects of sweating, headaches, body pain, unexpected weight loss, vision changes, hot flashes, tingling, or anxiety.
• Finally, fewer than 1% of patients experienced weight gain, hair loss, acne, irregular menstrual cycles, flushing, ringing of the ears, or nasal irritation.
Rare, Serious Side Effects of Zoloft
Some Zoloft patients have experience even more serious side effects. While rare, these side effects may require immediate medical attention or further medical treatment. Zoloft has caused a change in behavior for some patients; in this case, patients may become aggressive, highly agitated, or nervous. Others may experience extreme elation, which is called mania. Some patients may find that they are allergic to Zoloft, and may experience serious side effects from an allergic reaction to the medication.
Rarely, Zoloft has been shown to increase suicidal thoughts, tendencies, or actions in patients under the age of 25. Teens and young adults should be watched closely while taking Zoloft, since the medication may make depression worse.
Zoloft Side Effects Summary
Patients currently taking or considering taking Zoloft should be aware of potential side effects and should work closely with healthcare providers.
Former Zoloft patients or family members of Zoloft patients who have experienced severe Zoloft side effects may wish to consult an attorney.
