From the FDA Drug Label
Common possible side effects in people who take sertraline include: ... increased sweating The FDA drug label mentions that increased sweating is a possible side effect of sertraline, but it does not provide any specific recommendations for patients who experience excessive sweating while taking the medication 1.
From the Research
For patients experiencing excessive sweating while taking sertraline, the most effective management strategy is to prescribe terazosin, as it has been shown to significantly reduce sweating severity in patients with major depressive disorder treated with sertraline, as demonstrated in a randomized controlled trial 2. When considering treatment options, it's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of each approach. Terazosin, an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker, has been found to be effective in reducing excessive sweating in patients taking sertraline, with a significant improvement in sweating severity observed in 68% of patients treated with terazosin compared to 6% in the placebo group 2. Other management strategies may include:
- Switching to a different antidepressant with less tendency to cause sweating, such as mirtazapine or bupropion
- Prescribing anticholinergics like oxybutynin (2.5-5mg twice daily) or glycopyrrolate (1-2mg twice daily) to reduce sweating
- Using topical antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride (like Drysol) applied at bedtime to dry areas
- Making practical lifestyle adjustments, such as wearing breathable fabrics, avoiding spicy foods and caffeine, staying hydrated, and using cooling techniques during episodes It's crucial to discuss these options with a healthcare provider before making any medication changes, as they can help determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient. Additionally, sertraline's effect on serotonin regulation and norepinephrine levels, which influence the body's thermoregulatory system and sweat gland activity, should be taken into account when managing excessive sweating in patients taking this medication 3, 4.