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Zoloft

Zoloft is a prescription drug that may be used to treat depression, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and other conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft helps to balance the serotonin levels in the brain, which usually helps with symptoms of depression and similar conditions. Common side effects of Zoloft include dry mouth, insomnia, and nausea.

 

What Is Zoloft?

Zoloft® (sertraline hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat a number of conditions within the brain.
 

Who Makes Zoloft?

Zoloft is manufactured by Pfizer. Generic Zoloft is made by several different manufacturers.
 

What Is Zoloft Used For?

Zoloft is licensed to treat a number of conditions, including:
 
(Click What Is Zoloft Used For? for more information on what Zoloft is used for, including possible off-label uses of the medication.)
 

How Does Zoloft Work?

Zoloft is part of a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs for short. SSRIs, such as Zoloft, act on a specific chemical within the brain known as serotonin. Serotonin is one of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
 
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin. The serotonin enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough serotonin reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
 
Normally, this process works without any problems. But when the levels of serotonin become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression and panic disorder. Zoloft helps to block the reuptake of serotonin so more serotonin remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the serotonin a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;