Zoloft® (Sertraline) Side Effects
Zoloft® (Sertraline Hcl) side effects have been reported by many patients, some minor and some severe. For the most part, however, the side effects are tolerable and the overall benefit of the medication outweighs any discomfort. If you are taking Zoloft® and experience serious or persistent side effects, consult your healthcare provider right away.
Common Zoloft® Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with Zoloft® treatment include:
- Feelings of anxiety or nervousness
- Stomach problems (nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting)
- Dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Excessive sweating
If the side effects become bothersome and interfere with everyday life, you should speak with your doctor about alternative treatment options.
Serious Side Effects of Zoloft®
Although most side effects of Zoloft® (Sertraline Hcl) are minor and tolerable, some patients have reported more severe and dangerous side effects. If you begin to experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:
- New or worsened agitation, irritability or aggressiveness
- Restlessness or inability to sit still
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior, worsened depression
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing
- Fast, irregular heartbeat
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory loss
- Ringing in the ears, vision problems
- Black or bloody stools, problems with bladder control
- Severe weakness and fatigue
Severe and dangerous allergic reactions to Zoloft® have also been reported. Symptoms of allergic reactions include rash, hives, problems breathing, chest tightness or swelling of the face, mouth or tongue. Also be aware of adverse drug interactions with Zoloft®.
Long Term Zoloft® Side Effects
Long term side effects of taking Zoloft® can affect a person's life forever. Evidence shows that children, adolescents and young adults who take Zoloft® have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Young patients that are prescribed Zoloft® should be carefully monitored.
Zoloft® (Sertraline Hcl) has negative interactions with other drugs, which can lead to long term side effects. For instance, if Zoloft® is taken in combination with a certain migraine medication (triptan), patients are at an increased risk of developing a life-threatening disorder called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include hallucinations, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, increased body temperature, overactive reflexes and drastic changes in blood pressure.
Zoloft®, when taken by a pregnant woman, can have lasting effects on the unborn child. Some birth defects have been linked to Zoloft® exposure during development, include persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), a condition characterized by abnormal blood flow through the heart and lungs which results in lack of oxygen in the body. PPHN can have fatal consequences. Other birth defects that can affect a child for their entire lives include heart problems, skull problems and abdominal problems. Birth defects can have devastating consequences that last a lifetime.
To speak with a Zoloft® attorney about a side effect claim, please contact us today.