Evidence Health
← Back to the full page

Sertraline

Also sold as Sertraline

Medicine summary · from official FDA labels · Oct 19, 2026

Serious warning: WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [ See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.
2 recalls on record — a recall affects specific batches; check with your pharmacist.

What it’s used for

Sertraline hydrochloride tablets are indicated for the treatment of the following [ See Clinical Studies ( 14 ) ]: • Major depressive disorder (MDD) • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) • Panic disorder (PD) • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) • Social anxiety disorder (SAD) • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Sertraline hydrochloride tablets are a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of ( 1 ): • Major depressive disorder (MDD) • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) • Panic disorder (PD) • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) • Social anxiety disorder (SAD) • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

How to take it

Indication Starting Dosage Maximum Dosage MDD ( 2. 1 ) 50 mg per day 200 mg per day OCD ( 2.

Important warnings

Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue sertraline hydrochloride and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive treatment.

Common side effects

The following adverse reactions are described in more detail in other sections of the prescribing information: Hypersensitivity reactions to sertraline [See Contraindications ( 4 )] QTc prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when taken with pimozide [See Contraindications ( 4 ) , Clinical Pharmacology ( 12. 2 )] Suicidal thoughts and behaviors [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.

Interactions

Protein-bound drugs: Monitor for adverse reactions and reduce dosage of sertraline hydrochloride or other protein-bound drugs (e.

If pregnant or breastfeeding

8.

Forms & strengths

200 MG Oral Capsule · 100 MG Oral Tablet · 25 MG Oral Tablet · 50 MG Oral Tablet · 150 MG Oral Capsule · 20 MG/ML Oral Solution

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

  • Is this the right medicine for my condition, and how long should I take it?
  • What side effects should I watch for, and which need urgent attention?
  • Does this interact with my other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?