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Medication guide

Sertraline (Zoloft): uses, side effects, and what to expect

Medically reviewed by Dr. Iman Yunis, DNP, PMHNP-BC · Last reviewed October 26, 2026

A plain-language guide to a widely used antidepressant for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD.

New patients typically seen within 2–3 days

  • ✓ Plain-language guide
  • ✓ Reviewed by a psychiatric NP
  • ✓ Not a substitute for medical advice

The short answer

Sertraline (Zoloft) is an SSRI antidepressant approved by the FDA for depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, social anxiety disorder, and PMDD. It is one of the most studied antidepressants during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Most people notice the full effect after 4 to 8 weeks, and it should never be stopped suddenly without talking to your prescriber.

Safety first

Before you read

Never start, stop, or change a medication on your own. Talk with your prescriber first. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 now, or call 911 in an emergency.
FDA boxed warning: Antidepressants, including sertraline, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, teens, and young adults, especially in the first few months and after dose changes. Watch for new or worsening mood, agitation, or suicidal thoughts.

Uses

What sertraline is used for

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat:

  • Depression
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), including in children 6 and older
  • Panic disorder
  • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

What to expect

How it works and how long it takes

Sertraline increases the availability of serotonin, which helps regulate mood and anxiety. It is usually taken once a day.

It takes time. It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit, and OCD can take longer. For PMDD, some people take it only during part of the cycle, as directed by their prescriber.

Side effects

Common side effects

These are often mild and may ease over the first few weeks. Tell your prescriber if they bother you or do not go away.

  • Sexual side effects, such as lower desire or ejaculation problems
  • Upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, or gas
  • Lower appetite
  • Sleepiness or trouble sleeping

When to call

Serious side effects: call your prescriber right away

  • New or worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, or thoughts of self-harm
  • Unusually high energy or racing thoughts
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Confusion, weakness, or unsteadiness, which can be signs of low sodium, especially in older adults
  • Fever, confusion, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness, or loss of coordination (possible serotonin syndrome)

For signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing, call 911.

Cautions

Interactions and who should be careful

  • Do not take with MAO inhibitors, or within two weeks of stopping one
  • Tell your prescriber about other medications that affect serotonin, including other antidepressants, triptans, tramadol, and St. John’s wort
  • NSAIDs and blood thinners may increase bleeding risk
  • Tell your prescriber about a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, liver problems, or bleeding problems

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

Sertraline is one of the most studied antidepressants during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Even so, every situation is different. Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, and make the decision together with your OB, midwife, or pediatrician. Learn about our women’s mental health care.

Stopping

Stopping sertraline safely

Do not stop sertraline suddenly. Stopping abruptly can cause discontinuation symptoms such as dizziness, irritability, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Your prescriber can taper the dose gradually if stopping is right for you.

Not working?

When a medication is not helping enough

If sertraline is not helping, is causing side effects you cannot tolerate, or has stopped working, a thorough review can help. Options may include adjusting the dose, switching medications, adding therapy, or GeneSight® testing to help guide choices.

Dr. Yunis offers medication reviews by video across Washington, and new patients are typically seen within 2–3 days.

FAQ

Common questions about sertraline

How long does Zoloft take to work?

Many people notice improvement over several weeks. OCD may take longer. Your prescriber will check progress and may adjust the dose.

Is sertraline used for PMDD?

Yes. Sertraline is FDA-approved for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Can I take sertraline while breastfeeding?

Sertraline is one of the most studied antidepressants during breastfeeding. Discuss your situation with your prescriber and your baby’s pediatrician.

What if sertraline is not working?

Do not stop it on your own. Ask your prescriber about adjusting the dose, switching, adding therapy, or GeneSight testing.

Sources

Where this information comes from

This guide summarizes publicly available drug information from MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine) and the Mayo Clinic. It is general education, not medical advice, and does not cover every use, side effect, or interaction. Always follow the guidance of your own prescriber and pharmacist.

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