Medications
Sertraline (Zoloft)
A commonly used SSRI for depression and anxiety — how it works, how to take it, and what to expect.
At a glance
What is sertraline?
Sertraline is a medicine that helps with depression and some anxiety conditions. It changes the way your brain uses a chemical messenger called serotonin. Doctors do not fully understand how that lifts mood and eases worry, but for many people it does. It is not addictive, and most people take it once a day.
How to take it
Side effects
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping, or feeling sleepy
- Dry mouth
- Looser or more frequent bowel movements
- New or worsening thoughts of self-harm, especially early on
- Restlessness you can’t sit still with
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Fever with stiff or twitching muscles and confusion
When to get urgent help
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department if you have thoughts of harming yourself, or a fever with stiff or twitching muscles, sweating and confusion. You can also call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
Where this information comes from
Sertraline (Apo) medicine page
healthdirect Australia · 2025
Sertraline (oral route)
Mayo Clinic · 2026
Medicines for anxiety
healthdirect Australia · 2025
Antidepressants
healthdirect Australia · 2025
Zoloft (sertraline) — Consumer Medicine Information, June 2026 edition
Viatris Pty Ltd · Jun 2026
Zoloft — brand and indication information
healthdirect Australia · 2026
More in Medications
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This sheet is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your own doctor or pharmacist.