From the Research
Orthostatic Hypotension and Sertraline
- Orthostatic hypotension is a condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying down position.
- Sertraline, also known as Zoloft, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Studies on Sertraline and Orthostatic Hypotension
- A study published in 1996 1 reported a case of orthostatic hypotension induced by sertraline withdrawal, suggesting that sertraline may have some cardiovascular effects, particularly when discontinued.
- Another study published in 2020 2 discussed the role of medications in causing orthostatic hypotension in older adults, but did not specifically mention sertraline as a culprit.
- A case report published in 2024 3 described a patient who developed serotonin syndrome, which included symptoms of orthostatic hypotension, after increasing the dose of sertraline and adding other medications.
- A study published in 2002 4 found that sertraline actually improved symptoms of hypotension in patients undergoing hemodialysis, suggesting that it may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure in certain contexts.
- A cross-sectional analysis published in 2020 5 found that SSRI use, including sertraline, was associated with a greater drop in blood pressure and an increased risk of orthostatic hypotension in older adults with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Key Findings
- The evidence suggests that sertraline may be associated with orthostatic hypotension in certain individuals, particularly when discontinued or used in combination with other medications 1, 3, 5.
- However, sertraline may also have a beneficial effect on blood pressure in certain contexts, such as in patients undergoing hemodialysis 4.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between sertraline and orthostatic hypotension, particularly in vulnerable populations such as older adults with Alzheimer's disease.