What organ does sertraline affect?

Sertraline is a medication that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that is involved in regulating mood, emotions, and behavior. By increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, sertraline can help to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD.

Serotonin is produced in the brain and is involved in the regulation of mood, appetite, sleep, and other bodily functions. Sertraline works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, which increases the availability of this neurotransmitter in the brain. This leads to increased activation of serotonin receptors and can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

While sertraline primarily affects the CNS, it can also have effects on other organs and systems in the body. For example, sertraline can affect the digestive system and may cause nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. It can also affect the cardiovascular system and may cause changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Additionally, sertraline can affect sexual function and may cause sexual side effects such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm.

Overall, sertraline primarily affects the central nervous system by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain. However, it can also have effects on other organs and systems in the body, which is why it is important to talk to your doctor about any potential side effects or concerns you may have while taking this medication.


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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