Zoloft - what is it?
Zoloft, active ingredient sertraline hydrochloride, is a medication that is available by prescription. It is used for the treatment of many conditions that occur in the brain.
Who manufactures It?
Pfizer is the maker of Zoloft. Many companies make the generic form of this medication.
Zoloft Uses
This medication has been licensed for the treatment of many conditions that include OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), Panic disorder, PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), PMDD (premenstrual dyphoric disorder, social anxiety disorder and Major or clinical depression (depression).
How it works
Zoloft belongs to the class of medications known as SSRIs. These medications work with the brain chemical known as serotonin. Serotonin is just one of many chemicals that the brain uses to send messages from one nerve to the other.
As messages travel down nerves, the ends of the cells release serotonin. Serotonin then fills the gap between the nerve cells until there is enough for the receptors in the next cell allow the message to continue traveling. Once the message has moved on, the first cell absorbs any remaining serotonin. This is known as "reuptake."
Zoloft Side Effects
As is the case of all medication, there is the potential for side effects when taking Zoloft. Not everyone that takes this medication will notice side effects as it is generally well tolerated. If you do notice side effects, they are most often minor and require little or no treatment. Rarely, there is the risk for side effects that are more serious.
Generic Forms of Zoloft
At this time, there are both generic and brand name forms of Zoloft liquid and tablets that have been licensed for sale.