Is Zoloft (Sertraline) Addictive? — Talkspace

Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant treatment within the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of medication. It’s used to deal with melancholy, nervousness issues, and different psychological well being circumstances. Zoloft will increase serotonin ranges within the mind to enhance temper and regulate feelings. 

A typical query earlier than beginning this — or any — antidepressant is usually: is Zoloft addictive? When taken as prescribed, Zoloft is not thought of addictive. In reality, analysis exhibits it’s tolerated properly by most individuals who take it. It doesn’t produce a euphoric excessive or trigger cravings, like substances abused for leisure functions do. That mentioned, Zoloft dependancy can nonetheless be a priority for many individuals, because it is potential to turn out to be bodily dependent on this treatment over time. 

What’s the distinction between being addicted and being depending on a prescription drug? Keep studying to study extra — we’ll clarify why sertraline isn’t addictive and discover all the pieces it is advisable learn about this SSRI.  

Zoloft Dependency vs Addiction

Being dependent, versus Zoloft dependancy, means you’ve developed a tolerance for a substance. This means you may want extra frequent doses or increased dosages than initially prescribed to realize the identical impact. It doesn’t essentially point out drug dependancy has occurred, although. 

Dependency may be managed by cautious monitoring by a physician. By distinction, drug dependancy includes compulsive use regardless of adverse penalties, together with psychological misery and impaired functioning socially and/or occupationally. 

“Zoloft dependence is commonly attached to more of a psychological dependence rather than an addictive scope, which results in destructive repercussions from compulsive overuse.”

– Talkspace therapist Elizabeth Keohan, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW

How Long Should I Stay on Zoloft?

First, you could know how lengthy it takes for Zoloft to work. The size of time anybody ought to keep on Zoloft depends upon particular person wants and circumstances and your physician’s suggestion. It’s vital to first give it time to see if it improves your melancholy signs or nervousness signs. Never discontinue utilizing Zoloft or any SSRI abruptly, as there’s a excessive potential for withdrawal signs.

What Happens if You Stop Taking Zoloft?

If you cease taking Zoloft, you’ll be able to expertise withdrawal signs beginning inside 24 hours after stopping therapy and lasting as much as 2 – 4 weeks, relying upon elements like period and dosage earlier than cessation. Tapering off of an SSRI step by step and beneath medical supervision is at all times beneficial.  

Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome

Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, also called antidepressant withdrawal, is a set of bodily and psychological signs that may happen when somebody stops taking an antidepressant treatment. It generally happens in individuals who’ve taken antidepressants for at the least 4 weeks or longer. Symptoms embody: 

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Flu-like aches & pains
• Vivid goals 

How to keep away from Zoloft withdrawal signs

Part of answering the query is Zoloft addictive means understanding the dangers related to stopping this treatment abruptly or too rapidly. The following can assist you keep away from Zoloft withdrawal signs:

• Taper off slowly: It’s vital to not make sudden adjustments in dosage as this might trigger critical Zoloft unwanted side effects. Your physician will scale back your dose step by step over time. The course of may take a number of weeks or months, relying on how lengthy you took Zoloft and what dose you have been on.
• Take with meals: Taking the treatment with meals helps your physique take in the lively elements correctly. This can assist scale back any potential unwanted side effects or withdrawal signs in case you cease taking it in a while down the road.
• Monitor signs carefully: Monitor any adjustments in temper or habits whereas taking Zoloft and after discontinuing use. This approach, you’ll be able to catch withdrawal indicators earlier than they turn out to be extreme. Some widespread signs embody insomnia/bother sleeping, irritability, complications, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, issue concentrating, and elevated nervousness/panic assaults. If signs seem, contact your physician immediately.

“As with all medications, compliance and maintaining regular medication consultations are the best ways to avoid negative side effects even while titrating down. Continue a healthy self-care routine, including nutrition and sleep, to more clearly notice changes or negative withdrawal symptoms.”

– Talkspace therapist Elizabeth Keohan, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW