What is Sertraline 100mg Used For?
Sertraline 100mg may be prescribed for:- Major depressive episodes
- Prevention of recurrence of major depressive episodes
- Obsessive compulsive disorder, also called OCD
- Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia
- Social anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder, also called PTSD
How to Take Sertraline 100mg?
Take Sertraline 100mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily, either in the morning or evening. Try to take it at the same time each day. Do not take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose unless your doctor tells you to. Do not stop suddenly, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, headache, anxiety, sleep problems, sweating, or electric-shock sensations. BNF advises tapering SSRIs over at least a few weeks to reduce withdrawal effects.Dosage Information
For adults, sertraline is commonly started at 50mg once daily for depression and OCD. For panic disorder, PTSD, and social anxiety disorder, treatment often starts at 25mg once daily for one week, then increases to 50mg once daily. Dose increases may be made in 50mg steps at intervals of at least one week, up to a usual maximum of 200mg per day when clinically appropriate. A 100mg dose is usually used when a lower dose is not enough or when your doctor has already adjusted your treatment. Do not change from 50mg to 100mg without medical advice.How Long Does Sertraline 100mg Take to Work?
Some people may notice early improvement within 1–2 weeks, but full benefit often takes several weeks. UK product information says therapeutic effect may be seen within 7 days, but longer periods are usually needed, especially for OCD. Keep taking Sertraline 100mg as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise.Common Side Effects Sertraline 100mg
Common side effects may include:- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhoea
- Problems sleeping
- Increased sweating
- Sexual problems, such as reduced libido
- Weight changes
Serious Side Effects and When to Get Help
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Severe agitation, confusion, shaking, sweating, or fast heartbeat
- Symptoms of serotonin syndrome
- Allergic reaction, such as swelling of the throat or tongue, rash, or breathing difficulty
- Seizures
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe skin reaction
Warnings and Precautions
Speak to your doctor before taking Sertraline 100mg if you have:- Epilepsy or a history of seizures
- Bipolar disorder or mania
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Glaucoma risk
- A history of bleeding problems
- Low sodium levels, especially in older adults
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding considerations
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take:- Other antidepressants
- MAOIs
- Triptans for migraine
- Lithium
- Tramadol
- St John’s wort (herbal supplement)
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin
- Antipsychotics
- Medicines that affect heart rhythm
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not stop Sertraline 100mg suddenly if you become pregnant. Speak to your GP, midwife, or specialist. BNF notes that SSRIs may be suitable in pregnancy after weighing risks and benefits, but the lowest effective dose should be considered. It also notes a small increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage when SSRIs are used in the month before delivery. For breastfeeding, BNF states that sertraline is one of the SSRIs commonly considered during breastfeeding, but infants should be monitored for drowsiness, poor feeding, weight gain, and stomach symptomsFAQ
Can I stop Sertraline 100mg suddenly?
No. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, headache, anxiety, sleep problems, sweating, and unusual sensations. Speak to your doctor before reducing or stopping treatment.Do I need a prescription for Sertraline 100mg in the UK?
Yes. Sertraline 100mg is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. It should be used only after a doctor or qualified prescriber confirms it is suitable.
Does Sertraline 100mg make you sleepy?
It can cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people, while others may have sleep problems. Avoid driving or using machinery until you know how Sertraline 100mg affects you.Is sertraline 100mg available over the counter in the UK?
No, Sertraline 100mg is not available over the counter in the UK. It is a prescription-only SSRI antidepressant used for conditions such as depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and social anxiety disorder. Use it only when prescribed by your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.Can I Reduce Sertraline From 100mg to 50mg?
Do not reduce Sertraline from 100mg to 50mg without speaking to your GP or prescriber. Dose changes should usually be gradual to lower the risk of withdrawal symptoms, such as dizziness, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea or mood changes. Follow your doctor’s tapering plan. NICE BNF says sertraline should preferably be reduced gradually, usually over about 4 weeks or longer if withdrawal symptoms occur.
Medical Disclaimer
Sertraline 100mg is a prescription-only medicine in the UK and should be used only under the advice of a doctor, pharmacist, or qualified prescriber. This page is for general information only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change your dose without speaking to your healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical help if you have serious side effects, worsening mood, or thoughts of self-harm. Sertraline is only available with a prescription in the UK
