Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mood disorders, with clear, practical guidance from TrandFamilyStore.
Click to enlarge images
Zoloft is the brand name for sertraline, a prescription antidepressant in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It is approved to treat major depressive disorder, various anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It is available in tablets of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, and as an oral solution with 20 mg per mL for people who cannot swallow pills or need fine dose adjustments.
Zoloft can be used in adults and, for some conditions like OCD, in children as young as 6 years under specialist care. Because it is available as a generic, many patients compare prices for cheap sertraline or buy refills online from licensed U.S. pharmacies. Legitimate sources will provide clear labeling, the correct strength, and a valid expiration date.
Sertraline increases levels of serotonin in the brain by blocking its reuptake into nerve cells. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that influences mood, anxiety, and other emotional processes. By enhancing serotonin signaling, Zoloft can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and help normalize thought patterns in conditions like OCD.
Like other SSRIs, Zoloft does not work immediately. Benefits typically build over several weeks, and steady daily dosing is important for best results.
Improved mood, reduced worry or panic episodes, less obsessive thinking, and a calmer outlook. Early on, you may feel mild side effects before mood benefits are noticeable. Tracking your symptoms helps guide dose adjustments with your clinician.
Dosing varies by condition, age, and individual response. Always follow your prescription label and do not adjust without medical advice.
Take once daily, in the morning or evening, with or without food. For the oral solution, measure carefully with the provided device and mix with water, ginger ale, lemon lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice just before taking. If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless it is almost time for the next one—then skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
Generic sertraline is widely available and inexpensive. Buying online from licensed pharmacies can reduce cost. Cheap pricing is acceptable when the label, strength, and expiration date are clear, and a pharmacist is available for questions.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, increased sweating, trouble sleeping, dizziness, and sexual side effects such as reduced desire or delayed orgasm. Many of these improve over time as your body adjusts.
Zoloft should be used with caution in people with liver disease, seizure disorders, bleeding disorders, or bipolar disorder. Do not stop suddenly, as withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, irritability, and flu like feelings can occur. Tapering is recommended.
Take the medicine at the same time each day. Monitor mood, anxiety, and sleep patterns. If buying Zoloft online, choose a licensed U.S. pharmacy, verify the strength and expiration date, and ensure labeling is clear. Cheap pricing is fine when those checks are met.
Some people notice improved sleep or appetite in the first 1 to 2 weeks, but mood, anxiety, and OCD symptoms may take 4 to 6 weeks or longer to improve fully.
You can take it at either time, but many take it in the morning if it causes insomnia, or at night if it causes drowsiness. Take it at the same time every day.
Take it when remembered unless it is almost time for your next dose. If so, skip the missed dose and continue as scheduled. Do not double up.
Weight change is possible but varies. Some people experience mild weight gain, others no change, and some lose weight. Lifestyle factors also play a big role.
Light alcohol use may be tolerated, but alcohol can increase side effects like drowsiness and impair judgment. Avoid heavy drinking.
It may be prescribed during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks. Some studies suggest potential risks to the newborn if taken late in pregnancy. Discuss with your clinician.
No, not without medical guidance. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms and risk relapse. Your dose should be tapered gradually.
Yes, if purchased from a licensed U.S. pharmacy with clear labeling and expiration dates. Cheap pricing is fine when those checks are met.
It can cause reduced desire, delayed orgasm, or other sexual side effects in some people. Adjusting the dose or timing, or switching medicines, can help—ask your clinician.
Yes, for OCD in children 6 years and older, and sometimes for other conditions under specialist supervision. Dosing is lower and carefully adjusted.
This website provides informational overviews of medications and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.
Patient Reviews
Leave a Comment
This page was last medically reviewed: August 2025
Educational information only. Zoloft should be used under clinician supervision with dose adjustments based on response and side effects. Do not stop suddenly.