kaedawg asked
What are all the possible side effects of Zoloft?
Answer
Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant medication, classified as a SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). There are a variety of well known side effects associated with Zoloft (sertraline) and with the SSRI class in general. Below, we list the most commonly reported side effects in those taking Zoloft.
It is important to note that side effects tend to be dose related, meaning that higher doses yield more side effects. Below, is the average occurrence of side effects in individuals.
Zoloft (sertraline) Side Effects
| Side Effect | Sertraline (Estimated Incidence) |
| Nausea | 26% |
| Insomnia | 20% |
| Diarrhea | 14% |
| Dry Mouth | 12% |
| Fatigue | 12% |
| Drowsiness | 11% |
| Tremors | 9% |
| Heartburn | 8% |
| Sweating | 7% |
| Libido Decrease | 6% |
| Constipation | 6% |
| Sexual | 4-8% |
| Yawning | ~2% |
| Headache | ~2% |
Zoloft (Sertraline) Side Effect Discussion
The side effect chart above isn't a complete list of side effects, but encompasses the most commonly reported ones. Below, we discuss some of the side effects in more detail and ones that are not referrenced in the chart.Gastrointestinal
GI side effects are the most common in patients taking Zoloft, and all SSRI drugs for that matter. These side effects include nausea, heartburn, constipation and vomiting. Generally, these side effects are most apparent when first starting the medication. They tend to subside after the first 2 weeks of therapy. It has been reported that Zoloft has a higher incidence of GI side effects versus other SSRI drugs.
Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction can happen in both men and women. These side effects can include everything from libido decrease to erectile dysfunction. Sexual side effects can also include orgasm dysfunction in both sexes. Paxil (paroxetine) is generally associated with the highest incidence of sexual side effects.
Other Side Effects
Less common side effects include dermatological reactions (e.g. eczema and dry skin) and weight loss/gain. Zoloft specifically is associated with slight weight loss. Particularly in children, weight loss was reported in about 2% of patients. However, if you are having weight gain issues with Zoloft, Prozac (fluoxetine) is generally associated with the least chance of significant weight gain. In addition, the following side effects have been rarely reported:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Agitation
- QT prolongation (a type of arrhythmia)
- Low sodium levels
- Endocrine dysfunction (e.g. hypoglycemia)
- Bone loss
As mentioned previously, many of the side effects of Zoloft tend to occur when therapy first starts and generally fade after two weeks of continuous dosing. If you are experiencing side effects, oftentimes tapering your dose (i.e. starting at a low dose and increasing slowly) can help minimize or negate negative side effects.
