Zoloft Overdose: An Introduction
Zoloft® (
sertraline hydrochloride) is a medication that is used to treat a number of conditions within the brain. As with all medicines, it is possible for a person to overdose on Zoloft. The Zoloft overdose effects will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much Zoloft is taken and if it is taken with any other medicines.
Symptoms of a Zoloft Overdose
If a person overdoses on Zoloft, the symptoms can vary. The most common Zoloft overdose symptoms include:
- Drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia) or slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Agitation
- Shakiness (tremor).
Other Zoloft overdose symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
Loss of life following a Zoloft overdose has been reported in about 1 percent of cases. The risk of death is significantly higher when the overdose also includes other medicines.
Zoloft Overdose: Treatment
The treatment for a Zoloft overdose will vary.
If the overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may administer certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Treatment may also involve supportive care. This type of care consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options for a Zoloft overdose may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Medicines to increase blood pressure, control an irregular heart rhythm, or control seizures
- Closely monitoring the heart and lungs
- A breathing tube to help with breathing
- Other treatments based on complications that occur.
If you believe that you may have overdosed on Zoloft, seek medical attention right away.
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