What it is used for

Depression
Panic disorder and social anxiety disorder
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), including in children aged 6 and over
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Generalised anxiety disorder (it is commonly recommended first)
Premature ejaculation
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (severe PMS)

How it works

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It increases the level of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood and anxiety. It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to work fully.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Sertraline can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sick
diarrhoea or indigestion
headache
trouble sleeping or feeling sleepy
dizziness
sweating
feeling anxious when you first start
sexual problems

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life
unusual bleeding or bruising, or blood in your pee or poo
signs of serotonin syndrome, such as confusion, high temperature, sweating and muscle twitching

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Tell your doctor straight away if you feel worse or have thoughts of suicide, especially in the first few weeks or if you are under 25.
Do not take it with St John's wort.
It is often the preferred SSRI in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but always discuss this with your doctor.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.