What are bad reactions to sertraline?

Sertraline is a medication that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). While sertraline is generally considered safe and effective, it can cause some individuals to experience bad reactions or adverse reactions to the medication. Here are some examples of bad reactions to sertraline:

Allergic reaction

In rare cases, sertraline can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to sertraline may include hives, rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Side effects

Sertraline can cause a variety of side effects, some of which may be bad reactions for certain individuals. Common side effects of sertraline can include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. Other side effects may include sexual dysfunction, changes in appetite or weight, and dry mouth. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking sertraline, it is important to contact your doctor.

Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there is too much serotonin in the body. Serotonin syndrome can be caused by taking sertraline in combination with other medications that increase serotonin levels or by taking too much sertraline. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include confusion, agitation, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking sertraline, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Withdrawal symptoms

If you stop taking sertraline abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor about gradually tapering off sertraline when it is time to stop taking the medication.

Drug interactions

Sertraline can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Some drug interactions can cause bad reactions, such as increased risk of bleeding or serotonin syndrome. It is important to talk to your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting sertraline.

In conclusion, while sertraline is generally considered safe and effective for the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD, it can cause bad reactions in some individuals. Bad reactions may include allergic reactions, side effects, serotonin syndrome, withdrawal symptoms, and drug interactions. If you experience any bad reactions to sertraline, it is important to seek immediate medical attention and talk to your doctor about alternative treatment options.


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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