Drug Details
Therapeutic Class:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Forms:
Oral tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, Oral Solution: 20 mg/mL
Administration:
By mouth
Therapeutic Uses:
Major depressive disorder
Social anxiety disorder
Panic disorder
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Controlled Status:
Not a controlled substance
What is Zoloft (sertraline)?
Zoloft is the brand name of sertraline. Zoloft (zoh lawft) is an antidepressant that belongs to a drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is a prescription oral medication that is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders such as major depressive disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
There may be other uses of Zoloft—your pharmacist or physician can give you further information and assistance.
Who can take Zoloft (sertraline)?
Zoloft is approved for use in adults and children age 6 and older.
Is Zoloft safe for my child?
Children, adolescents, and young adults up to the age of 24 years treated with Zoloft (sertraline) can develop suicidal ideation (thoughts of harming themselves or planning to do so). Therefore, close monitoring is advised with antidepressants such as sertraline (Zoloft), especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Patients of this age group are at higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts and ideations. However, keep in mind that these side effects can happen to patients of any age group. Talk to your doctor about the risk of mental health changes before starting your child or adolescent on this medication. If you or someone you know experiences worrisome changes in mood or behavior, please contact your doctor and seek emergency medical care immediately.
Zoloft is approved to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children aged 6 and older. It is not authorized to treat depression in children. Zoloft is indicated to treat OCD in children who are at least 6 years old. A discussion with your child’s physician regarding the risks and the benefits of Zoloft for the treatment of OCD is beneficial for the overall treatment outcomes. If treatment with Zoloft is started, you will need to closely observe your child for behavioral changes, suicidal thoughts, ideations, or worsening clinical symptoms.
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