Who should avoid sertraline?

Sertraline is a medication that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD. While sertraline can be an effective treatment for these conditions, there are some individuals who may need to avoid taking it or who may need to take it with caution.

Here are some groups of people who should avoid or take caution with sertraline:

  1. Allergic reactions: Individuals who have a known allergy to sertraline or any of the components in the medication should avoid taking it.
  2. History of mania or bipolar disorder: Sertraline can trigger manic episodes in individuals who have a history of mania or bipolar disorder. If you have a history of mania or bipolar disorder, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking sertraline.
  3. Liver or kidney disease: Individuals with liver or kidney disease may need to take sertraline with caution or avoid it altogether. This is because the medication is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, and any impairment in these organs can affect the clearance of the drug from the body.
  4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Sertraline is classified as a category C medication for pregnancy, which means that it may not be safe for use during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Sertraline can also pass into breast milk, so it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking sertraline while breastfeeding.
  5. Other medications and supplements: Sertraline can interact with other medications and supplements, including MAO inhibitors, blood thinners, and St. John’s Wort. It is important to talk to your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking before starting sertraline.

In conclusion, while sertraline can be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD, there are some individuals who may need to avoid taking it or who may need to take it with caution. If you have any concerns about whether sertraline is right for you, it is important to talk to your doctor.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

What happens if you take sertraline at night?

Can sertraline cause memory loss?