What is the best time of day to take sertraline (Zoloft)?

Best Time of Day to Take Sertraline (Zoloft)

Sertraline can be taken either in the morning or evening as a single daily dose, with the choice depending primarily on individual side effect profile and tolerability. 1

General Dosing Recommendations

• Sertraline is administered as a single daily dose and may be taken at any time of day 2
• The FDA-approved labeling for sertraline states it can be administered "once daily, either in the morning or evening" 1
• The elimination half-life of sertraline ranges from 22-36 hours, making once-daily administration therapeutically effective regardless of timing 3

Factors to Consider When Choosing Morning vs. Evening Dosing

Morning Administration May Be Preferable If:

• You experience insomnia or sleep disturbances as a side effect 4
• You're taking sertraline for its potentially activating effects 4
• You tend to forget evening medications 2

Evening Administration May Be Preferable If:

• You experience daytime drowsiness, sedation, or nausea as side effects 4
• You have a history of gastrointestinal disturbances from the medication that might be better tolerated while sleeping 5
• You're using sertraline to help with sleep disturbances 4

Common Side Effects That May Influence Timing

• Typical side effects of SSRIs including sertraline can include sweating, tremors, nervousness, insomnia or somnolence, dizziness, and various gastrointestinal disturbances 4
• These side effects are usually mild and transient, decreasing in frequency with continued treatment 5
• If insomnia occurs, morning dosing is recommended 4
• If sedation occurs, evening dosing may be more appropriate 4

Special Considerations

• Unlike some medications that require specific timing recommendations, sertraline offers flexibility in administration time 1, 2
• Consistency is important - once you choose a time of day, it's best to stick with it to maintain steady blood levels 2
• For elderly patients, there is no need for altered dose timing recommendations 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Changing the time of administration frequently can lead to inconsistent blood levels 3
• Taking sertraline with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects, regardless of time of day 5
• If switching from morning to evening dosing (or vice versa), be aware that side effects may temporarily change during the transition period 3
• Some patients mistakenly think that timing affects efficacy, when in fact it primarily affects side effect management 2