From the FDA Drug Label
Central & Peripheral Nervous System Disorders Paresthesia 2%
The FDA drug label reports Paresthesia (which includes tingling sensations) as a side effect of sertraline, occurring in 2% of patients.
- This suggests that tingling in arms and legs is a possible side effect of sertraline, although the exact incidence of this specific symptom is not provided 1.
From the Research
Tingling in the arms and legs is a recognized side effect of sertraline, and if you're experiencing this symptom, you should contact your healthcare provider but don't abruptly stop taking the medication. This sensation, known medically as paresthesia, typically affects 2-9% of people taking sertraline and often occurs during the first few weeks of treatment or after dose increases. The tingling usually results from sertraline's effect on nerve signaling pathways, particularly those involving serotonin, which plays a role in sensory perception. For many people, this side effect diminishes over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor might recommend continuing at the current dose if symptoms are mild, temporarily reducing the dose, or switching to an alternative antidepressant if the tingling is severe or persistent, as seen in a study comparing the efficacy of different antidepressants 2. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking the medication consistently can sometimes help minimize this side effect. It's essential to distinguish medication-related tingling from other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as neuropathic pain conditions treated with gabapentin and pregabalin 3, 4. In some cases, alternative treatments like pregabalin may be considered, which has shown efficacy in treating generalized anxiety disorder with a faster onset of action compared to sertraline 5. However, the decision to switch medications should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider, considering the individual's specific condition and medical history. A recent network meta-analysis found that pregabalin and gabapentin have the most significant effect on relieving central poststroke pain, but also have the most adverse reactions 4. Ultimately, the goal is to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life, and the treatment approach should be tailored to the individual's needs and response to the medication.