From the Guidelines
Yes, Zoloft is the brand name of sertraline. According to the study published in The Journal of Urology 1, sertraline is listed as having the tradename "Zoloft". Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat various mental health conditions. The medication works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and decrease unwanted thoughts.
Key Points
- The generic name for this medication is sertraline, and it may be prescribed under this name or the brand name "Zoloft"
- Typical dosages range from 25mg to 200mg daily, usually taken once per day, with treatment often continuing for several months or longer depending on the condition being treated and individual response, as seen in the study 1
- The study also notes that sertraline can be effective in treating premature ejaculation, with dosages of 25-200 mg/day or 50 mg 4-8 hours pre-intercourse
Important Considerations
- When prescribing sertraline, doctors may consider the potential adverse effects, such as nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, and reduced libido, as well as potential drug interactions, as discussed in the study 1
- The choice of regimen, either continuous daily dosing or situational dosing, may depend on the frequency of sexual activity and individual patient needs, as noted in the study 1
From the Research
Definition and Brand Name
- Zoloft is indeed a brand name of the medication sertraline, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat various psychiatric disorders.
Studies on Sertraline
- Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy and safety of sertraline in treating mood and anxiety disorders, including major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder 2, 3.
- These studies have consistently shown that sertraline is effective and well-tolerated in various patient populations, including adults and pediatric patients 2, 3.
- A comparative study between paroxetine and sertraline found that both medications were similarly effective and well-tolerated in treating generalized anxiety disorder 4.
Key Findings
- Sertraline has a good tolerability profile, with common side effects including gastrointestinal and central nervous system effects, as well as treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction 3.
- The medication has a favorable safety profile in overdose and is considered a first-line agent for treatment in both primary and tertiary care settings 3.