ENSERT-25

# Sertraline 25 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Sertraline 25 mg is a prescription antidepressant belonging to the **selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)** class. It is used to treat several mental health conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), depending on the patient's clinical needs. Sertraline may take several weeks to produce its full therapeutic effect and should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps relieve symptoms of depression * Helps reduce excessive anxiety and worry * Helps manage symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder * Helps reduce panic attacks associated with panic disorder * May help manage social anxiety disorder * May help reduce PTSD-related symptoms * Can help improve mood and emotional functioning when appropriately prescribed ## USES / INDICATIONS Sertraline 25 mg may be prescribed for: * Major depressive disorder * Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) * Panic disorder * Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) * Social anxiety disorder * Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) The approved uses can vary by country, age group, and specific product. ## HOW IT WORKS Sertraline selectively inhibits the reuptake of **serotonin (5-HT)** in the brain. This increases the availability of serotonin between nerve cells. Serotonin is involved in mood, anxiety, sleep, and emotional regulation. By increasing serotonin signaling over time, sertraline can help reduce symptoms of depression and several anxiety-related disorders. The medicine does not usually produce an immediate effect; improvement may develop gradually over several weeks. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Take Sertraline 25 mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor. * It is generally taken **once daily**, either in the morning or evening. * It can usually be taken with or without food. * Take it at approximately the same time every day. * Swallow the tablet with water. * The starting dose may be 25 mg for certain conditions, with the dose gradually increased when necessary. * The usual maximum adult dose is generally **200 mg per day**, depending on the indication and medical assessment. * Do not increase or decrease the dose without medical advice. * Do not stop sertraline suddenly, as withdrawal/discontinuation symptoms may occur. ### Missed Dose If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose. ## SIDE EFFECTS ### Common Side Effects * Nausea * Diarrhea * Headache * Dizziness * Dry mouth * Increased sweating * Tremor * Fatigue * Sleepiness * Difficulty sleeping * Changes in appetite * Sexual side effects * Delayed ejaculation or difficulty reaching orgasm Many early side effects may improve as the body adjusts to treatment. ### Serious Side Effects Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: * Thoughts of suicide or self-harm * Severe agitation, confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavioral changes * Seizures * Severe allergic reaction * Serotonin syndrome * Severe bleeding or unusual bruising * Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling * Severe headache, weakness, confusion, or seizures that could indicate low sodium levels * Abnormal heartbeat or fainting ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS Tell your doctor before taking Sertraline 25 mg if you have: * A history of bipolar disorder or mania * Epilepsy or seizures * Liver disease * Heart rhythm problems * Bleeding disorders * Low sodium levels * Glaucoma * A history of suicidal thoughts or behavior * Any significant medical or psychiatric condition ### Important Safety Information * Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behavior in some children, adolescents, and young adults, particularly during the early stages of treatment or after dose changes. * Monitor for significant changes in mood, behavior, anxiety, agitation, or suicidal thinking. * Sertraline can cause sexual dysfunction in some patients. * Avoid stopping treatment suddenly unless instructed by your doctor. * Sertraline may cause dizziness or sleepiness in some people. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you. * Alcohol may worsen certain side effects and should be discussed with your healthcare professional. * Sertraline can rarely cause **serotonin syndrome**, particularly when combined with other serotonergic medicines. * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Sertraline can interact with several medicines, including: * **MAO inhibitors** such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine — potentially serious interaction; these medicines should not be combined without appropriate medical supervision and washout periods. * **Other antidepressants and serotonergic medicines** — may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. * **Triptans** used for migraine — may increase serotonin-related adverse effects. * **Tramadol and certain other opioids** — may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and seizures. * **Lithium** — may increase serotonin-related effects. * **St. John's wort** — may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and other adverse effects. * **NSAIDs, aspirin, and anticoagulants such as warfarin** — may increase bleeding risk. * **Certain medicines affecting liver enzymes** — may alter sertraline concentrations. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store Sertraline 25 mg according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep the tablets in their original packaging. * Store at room temperature unless the product label specifies otherwise. * Protect from excessive heat and moisture. * Keep away from direct sunlight when applicable. * Keep out of the sight and reach of children. * Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription Medicine** Sertraline 25 mg should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE When purchasing Sertraline 25 mg: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check that the packaging is sealed and intact. * Verify the medicine name, strength, batch number, and expiry date. * Ensure the product has been stored appropriately. * Avoid products with damaged, altered, or suspicious packaging. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about the authenticity or quality of the medicine. ## FAQ — FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ### What is Sertraline 25 mg used for? Sertraline 25 mg is an SSRI antidepressant used for conditions such as depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, social anxiety disorder, and PMDD, depending on the indication and local approval. ### Is Sertraline 25 mg an antidepressant? Yes. Sertraline is an SSRI antidepressant that increases the availability of serotonin in the brain. ### How long does Sertraline 25 mg take to work? Some symptoms may begin to improve within the first few weeks, but the full therapeutic effect can take several weeks or longer. Continue taking it as prescribed even if improvement is not immediate. ### Is 25 mg of Sertraline a starting dose? Yes. A 25 mg starting dose is commonly used for some conditions, particularly when gradual dose adjustment is preferred. The appropriate starting and maintenance dose depends on the condition being treated and individual response. ### Can Sertraline 25 mg be taken every day? Yes. Sertraline is generally taken once daily when prescribed for ongoing treatment. Take it consistently at approximately the same time each day. ### Should Sertraline 25 mg be taken in the morning or at night? It can generally be taken either in the morning or evening. If it causes sleepiness, your doctor may recommend taking it at night; if it interferes with sleep, morning administration may be preferable. ### Can Sertraline 25 mg cause sleepiness? Yes. Some people experience sleepiness or fatigue, while others may experience insomnia or increased alertness. Avoid driving until you know how the medicine affects you. ### Can Sertraline cause sexual side effects? Yes. Reduced sexual desire, difficulty achieving orgasm, or delayed ejaculation can occur with sertraline and other SSRIs. Discuss persistent or troublesome symptoms with your doctor. ### Can I stop Sertraline 25 mg suddenly? It is generally not recommended to stop sertraline abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, sleep disturbance, anxiety, irritability, or unusual sensory sensations. Your doctor can advise on gradual dose reduction when appropriate. ### Can Sertraline 25 mg be taken with alcohol? Alcohol may worsen some side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, and impaired judgment. It is advisable to discuss alcohol use with your healthcare professional while taking sertraline. ### Can Sertraline 25 mg be taken with other antidepressants? Some antidepressants can interact with sertraline and increase the risk of serious adverse effects, including serotonin syndrome. Never combine antidepressants without medical supervision. ### Can Sertraline 25 mg cause suicidal thoughts? A small number of people, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults, may experience increased suicidal thoughts or behavioral changes when starting an antidepressant or changing its dose. Seek immediate professional help if suicidal thoughts or severe behavioral changes occur. ### What happens if I miss a dose of Sertraline 25 mg? Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses together to compensate for a missed dose. ### Is Sertraline 25 mg addictive? Sertraline is not considered an addictive medicine. However, stopping it suddenly after regular use can cause discontinuation symptoms, so dose reduction should generally be supervised by a healthcare professional. ### Is Sertraline 25 mg available without a prescription? Sertraline is a prescription medicine and should be used only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sertraline 25 mg should be used only as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. The appropriate dose and duration depend on the condition being treated, age, medical history, other medicines, and individual response. Do not start, stop, or change the dose without medical advice. Seek urgent medical attention for suicidal thoughts, severe allergic reactions, seizures, severe bleeding, or symptoms of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, confusion, fever, sweating, tremor, muscle rigidity, or rapid heartbeat.