Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (bothersome thoughts that won't go away and the need to perform certain actions over and over), panic attacks (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks), posttraumatic stress disorder (disturbing psychological symptoms that develop after a frightening experience), and social anxiety disorder (extreme fear of interacting with others or performing in front of others that interferes with normal life). It is also used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, including mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness. Sertraline is in a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amounts of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.

Sertraline comes as a tablet and a concentrate (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken once daily in the morning or evening. To treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder, sertraline is taken once a day, either every day of the month or on certain days of the month. Take sertraline at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sertraline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve.

• Symptoms of your condition that bother you most
• If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself 
• Medications you have taken in the past for your condition, whether they were effective or caused any adverse effects 
• If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your provider. Some side effects may pass with time, but others may require an adjustment in the medication. 
• Any other psychiatric or medical problems you have, including a history of bipolar disorder
• All other medications you are currently taking and any medication allergies you have. This will help your prescriber assess for potential drug interactions.
• Other non-medication treatment you are receiving (such as psychotherapy (i.e., talk therapy) or substance abuse treatment). Your provider can explain how these different treatments work with the medication. 
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding 
• If you drink alcohol or use drugs

• Headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, increased sweating, and dizziness
• Feeling nervous, restless, fatigued, sleepy or having trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• These will often improve over the first week or two as you continue to take the medication. 
• Sexual side effects, such as problems with orgasm or ejaculatory delay often do not diminish over time.