What is sertraline?
Sertraline is asynthetically manufactured chemical compound that is used as an antidepressant. Its active ingredient is sertraline as hydrochloride, a drug whose mechanism of action is based oninhibiting the reuptake of serotoninin theCentral Nervous System, improving the way the brain uses these natural chemicals. (1)
However, sertralineis much weaker than other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitorswhich reduces its interaction with other drugs. The commercial presentation of this medicine is in tablets of 50 mg and the administration of sertraline is orally, beingthe maximum dose for all cases of 200 mg per day. The recommended dosage is as follows:
- With depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder: The usual dose is 50 mg per day. This dose may be increased progressively to a maximum of 200 mg/day.
- With social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder: Initiation of treatment with a dose of 25 mg daily is recommended.
In children:
- From 6 to 12 years of age with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): A start with a dose of 25 mg daily is recommended and if the treating physician considers it appropriate.
- In the adolescent population between 13 and 17 years of age with obsessive-compulsive disorders: It is recommended to start treatment with a dose of 50 mg per day.
What is sertraline used for?
Sertraline is indicated for the treatment of some mental disorders, which we mention below:
1. Depression and social anxiety
Major depression and social anxiety are negative emotional states of mind, characterized by manifesting deep sadness and loss of interest among other symptoms. (two)
You should know: In a scientific paper where the effectiveness of sertraline in the treatment of depressive states was evaluated, it stood out over other antidepressant medications . (3)
2. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is another deviation from normal human behavior, manifested by fixation on irrational thoughts and fears that cause compulsive behaviors in the patient. (4)
To highlight: A scientific article, where a comparison is made on the dosage of sertraline in patients suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), describes the success of both therapies in controlling OCD. (5)
3. Post-traumatic stress
Post-traumatic stress consists of the individual’s inability to overcome any traumatic event in a healthy way, causing intense emotional and physical reactions. (6)
Note: Some scientific articles highlight the efficacy of sertraline in patients with post-traumatic stress. (7)
Sertraline Side Effects
Sertraline treatment may cause some of the following side effects in certain patients: in certain patients:
- Allergic reactions to contact with any of the components of sertraline.
- Headache, weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting.
- It can cause urinary incontinence, dyspepsia and flatulence.
- dry mouth
- It can produce a risk of serotonin syndrome (central nervous system disorder), if administered in conjunction with other serotonergic drugs.
Important: If you notice any of the adverse reactions on this list or one not included in the list while using sertraline, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
contraindications of sertraline
The use of this medicine is contraindicated in any of the following cases:
- Hypersensitivity to any of the components of sertraline.
- In patients being treated for chronic pain with medications such as fentanyl.
- In pregnant women, since complications have been reported after childbirth.
- In patients with hepatic insufficiency and severe renal insufficiency.
You should know: It is appropriate for the patient to make a review of his medical history to his doctor before starting treatment with sertraline.
Key Findings
- Sertraline is a synthetic drug with antidepressant action.
- Its active ingredient is sertraline, a drug that improves the way the brain use serotonin.
- This medication is indicated for the treatment of states of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress.
- May cause adverse effects such as headache, gastrointestinal upset, and allergic reactions.
- Sertraline must be administered under strict medical supervision.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.