Zoloft-Help for Your Major Depressive Disorder

Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is prescribed to control the symptoms of major depressive disorder, also known as unipolar disorder. This mental disorder is characterized by a persistent low mood and self-esteem and a loss of interest in activities that you once found to be enjoyable. Increased absenteeism from work or school, feeling sad most days, change in appetite, sleeping too much or not enough, and have a lack of energy, or you may even feel like harming yourself.

How Zoloft Works in Your Brain

In the brain, once a neurotransmitter has sent its neural pulse, it is usually reabsorbed. As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, Zoloft or generic Sertraline slows down the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in order to extend the length of time this neurotransmitter remains active in your brain which helps to improve your mood as it stabilizes. Serotonin is one of many neurotransmitters produced in your body. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Your doctor may advise taking Zoloft for help with compulsive-obsessive disorder, panic or anxiety disorder, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Zoloft can take several weeks before and positive results are realized, and as long as 3 months before the full benefit of this drug is apparent, so be patient.

Conditions Treated by Zoloft

Individuals who are trying to cope with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also benefit from taking Zoloft. PTSD is a mental condition that can occur after being exposed to a trauma that involves death or threat of death, a serious injury, or an event that involves sexual violence. Although this disorder has been around for many years, the name has changed; from shell shocked, gross stress reaction, post-combat stress disorder, and finally in 1980 came PTSD.

Traumatic events can be lived over and over like it is happening again and just as real. Some people will use avoidance to try and stop reliving horrific events by staying away from certain places, quit driving a vehicle, or never fly in an airplane. It can be debilitating and destroy relationships unless treatment is sought.

Before You Take Zoloft

Advise your doctor of any other Rx drugs, OTC meds, and herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking as they could affect how Zoloft works for you or produce negative side effects. You should not take Zoloft while you are pregnant or breast feeding without first talking to your primary caregiver as it may cause complications for your unborn or nursing baby.

Precautions for Zoloft

Until you know how Zoloft will affect you, be careful operating a vehicle, machinery, or any activity that could be unsafe if your thinking or reactions are impaired. Keep all of your medications stored securely and safely out of children’s reach and never share meds with anyone.

Possible Side Effects of Zoloft

• Stomach pains, cramps, or gas
• Sleep problems
• Heartburn
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Changes in your weight

Drugs Similar to Zoloft

• Dothiepin
• Prozac
• Cymbalta