Can sertraline cause memory loss?

There is some evidence to suggest that sertraline may cause memory impairment in some individuals, but the overall effects on memory are not well understood.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 2009 found that sertraline was associated with decreased verbal memory performance in healthy adults. However, the study did not find any significant changes in other cognitive domains, such as attention or executive function.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2018 found that sertraline was associated with decreased memory performance in older adults with major depressive disorder. However, the study also found that sertraline was associated with improvements in other cognitive domains, such as processing speed and executive function.

It is important to note that these studies were conducted in specific populations and may not apply to everyone who takes sertraline. Additionally, the effects of sertraline on memory are not well understood and may vary depending on individual factors such as dose, duration of treatment, and underlying medical conditions.

If you are concerned about memory loss while taking sertraline, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you monitor your cognitive function and make recommendations for adjusting your medication if needed.


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: