Stress management

By: Brenda Williams
Zoloft is one of the many popular drugs in the SSRI family. SSRI's or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are most often prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD and premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD. Panic and anxiety disorders as well as obsessive compulsive disorders are also treated with the use of medications such as Zoloft.

Serotonin is a chemical that our brain creates that is used to regulate our mood. Zoloft works by decreasing the amount of serotonin that is absorbed by the brain. Some have less serotonin in the brain and are susceptible to mood disorders, anxiety and depression. Did you know that a chemical imbalance in the brain is the chief reason that people suffer from depression and anxiety? Could your bad mood be blamed on a decreased level of serotonin? Zoloft works efficiently to re-balance these chemicals within the brain.

The side effects that come from using SSRIs can vary, they range from: an increased risk of suicide for youth using the powerful drug, a lack of sex drive, dizziness and weakness, digestive symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea or other changes in appetite. Some people experience headaches associated with the use of Zoloft. Some people also experience changes in weight such as gain or loss, or a dry mouth while taking Zoloft. Sexual side effects such as decreased ability to achieve an orgasm, or a lack of sex drive to impotence may also occur while taking Zoloft. Many of these side effects are rare, with the chief symptom that is experienced while taking Zoloft is drowsiness.

Serious and rare side effects include tremors, balance issues, or an increase in heart rate which can worsen the effects of panic or anxiety attacks.

Pregnant mothers should not use the drug, as it can affect the child. The medication should also be avoided while breastfeeding.

Although Zoloft has been approved for use in treating children with obsessive-compulsive disorder, it has not been approved for treating children with depression. When children begin the treatment, it has been associated with an increased risk to the child becoming suicidal. This is the case for anyone twenty four years and younger.

Some people are allergic to the popular SSRI - How do you know if you are allergic? Most reactions will include hives found on the skin, or a rash on the torso and extremities, swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat and even difficulty breathing. If these symptoms occur it is crucial that a health care professional be contacted immediately.

What conditions mean that the patient should not take Zoloft? If someone is diagnosed with kidney or liver diseases than they should avoid taking the medication. As well, patients with a prior history of seizures, epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or a history of drug and alcohol abuse should avoid Zoloft. Due to the increased suicide risk, it is crucial that the drug be avoided if the patient has prior history of suicidal thoughts.

Some people experience side effects while taking the drug that are so undesirable they must quit. Within regards to any SSRI it is important that it be discontinued gradually.

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