TITLE: Sertraline: A Comprehensive Overview

📚 Drug Name

Sertraline / Zoloft

📚 Drug Class

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

📚 Indications

Sertraline is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

📚 Common Side Effects

Common side effects of sertraline include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, and increased sweating. Some patients may also experience appetite changes or sexual dysfunction.

📚 Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects can include serotonin syndrome, which is characterized by symptoms such as confusion, hallucination, seizure, extreme changes in blood pressure, increased heart rate, fever, and nausea. Other serious side effects may include suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and children, and severe allergic reactions.

📚 Warnings / Contraindications

Sertraline carries a black box warning for the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. It should not be used in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Use caution in patients with liver disease, seizures, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

📚 Dosage Forms

Sertraline is available in tablet form, typically in doses of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. It is also available as an oral solution with a concentration of 20 mg/mL.

📚 Pharmacy Technician Notes

When dispensing sertraline, remind patients to take it consistently at the same time each day, with or without food. Emphasize the importance of not abruptly stopping the medication without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can result in withdrawal symptoms. Encourage patients to report any new or worsening symptoms, particularly mood changes or suicidal thoughts.

📚 Summary

Sertraline is a widely prescribed SSRI that plays an essential role in managing various mental health disorders. Its efficacy in improving mood and reducing anxiety symptoms makes it an important tool in mental health treatment. Pharmacy technicians should focus on educating patients about the potential side effects and the importance of adherence to therapy to ensure optimal outcomes.