How quickly does sertraline work?

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, it may take several weeks before the full effects of the medication are felt.

In general, it may take 4 to 6 weeks for sertraline to start working and for individuals to notice an improvement in their symptoms. However, this timeline can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual factors such as genetics and response to medication.

It is important to keep in mind that sertraline may not work for everyone who takes it. Some individuals may require a higher dose or a different medication to effectively manage their symptoms.

If you are taking sertraline for depression or another mood disorder, it is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not notice an immediate improvement in your symptoms. Stopping sertraline abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and may not effectively treat your underlying condition.

In conclusion, sertraline may take several weeks to start working and for individuals to notice an improvement in their symptoms. It is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs and to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not notice an immediate improvement in your symptoms.


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:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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