What Is Zoloft Used For?

Some people wonder, "What is Zoloft used for?" Zoloft is used for treating depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is also used to treat panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and social anxiety disorder. In rare cases, doctors prescribe Zoloft for other conditions, such as fibromyalgia and migraines.

Zoloft Medication

Uses of Zoloft: An Overview

Zoloft^® (sertraline hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat a number of conditions, including

Depression
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Panic disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Social anxiety disorder (social phobia).

Zoloft Use for Depression

Depression is more than just "feeling sad." Common symptoms of depression include:

Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or not enough)
Eating too much or too little (and weight gain or weight loss)
Having little interest in things that you used to enjoy
Physical pain
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Suicidal thoughts.

Zoloft has been proven in large clinical trials to help adults with depression. However, keep in mind that many antidepressants (including Zoloft) take several weeks to begin working. Sometimes, other people will notice an improvement in your depression symptoms before you do. Often, the physical symptoms of depression (such as pain or changes in sleep) will improve first, sometimes within the first few weeks of treatment. It usually takes at least four to six weeks before significant changes in mood occur. It is important to give Zoloft a chance to work before becoming discouraged.

Counseling and therapy (see Psychotherapy for Depression) are often used along with antidepressant medication to treat depression. Ask your healthcare provider if counseling or therapy would be good options for you (see Depression Treatment).

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