Sertraline

Question 1

Drug Class

Answer 1

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)

Question 2

Active

Answer 2

Sertraline

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Major depression
• OCD
• Panic disorder
• Social phobia
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Question 4

Dose Range

Answer 4

50-200mg daily

Question 5

SE’s

Answer 5

• insomnia or sedation
• agitation
• anxiety (may start with benzo when used for anxiety disorders)
• tremor
• GI upset dry mouth
• dizziness
• headache
• sexual dysfunction
• sweating
• SIADH (hyponatraemia)
• weight gain/loss

Question 6

Counselling

Answer 6

• This medicine is usually taken in the morning at the same time each day.
• May not experience full benefit for 2-3 wks but A/E may occur from start of treatment (usually become more tolerable).
• Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly unless your doctor tells you to.
  Tell all doctors, dentists or pharmacists that you are taking this medicine, as there may be significant interactions with other medicines. Do not use non-prescription medicines or herbal products without discussing these with a pharmacist.

*withdrawal symptoms: dizzy, nausea, agitation, tremor, sweating (drug SE), anxiety, confusion, electric shock-like sensations – least likely with fluoxetine, more likely with paroxetine

Question 7

Monitoring

Answer 7

• Sodium concentration at baseline (especially if at risk of hyponatraemia)
• regular psychiatric review to monitor for compliance, tolerability and any signs of worsening disease
• monitor behaviour (increased suicidal thoughts at the start of treatment)