Sertraline is a type of drug called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It is used to treat a number of conditions including anxiety, depression and obessive compulsive disorder.

It is commonly used to treat anxiety and depression. Other uses include obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias and post traumatic stress disorder.

It is a class of drug called a selective serotonin re uptake inhibitor. It is thought that these drugs block the reabsorption of a neurotransmitter called serotonin in the brain, therefore increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain which has a positive effect on the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

This drug is usually started at a dose of 50mg. It can be increased (only if required) to a maximum dose of 200mg.

It is important to be aware that if your doctor recommends starting an antidepressant we would aim to treat for at least 6 months(provided the medication has a positive benefit for you and no intolerable side effects). Stopping the medication before this period even if you are feeling better increases the risk of relapse.

Sertraline can also enhance the effects of caffeine which can cause some people to experience symptoms of nausea or palpitations. Therefore large amounts of caffeine should be avoided.

St John’s Wort is a common herbal remedy that is sometimes used for the treatment of depression. St John’s wort is believed to contain active ingredients just like medications. However, it is sold as a supplement so it is not regulated in the same way medications are. Therefore we are not sure how it will react with other medications and should be avoided.

Using medication such as ibuprofen with sertraline increases the risk you will have stomach problems with it.

Other antidepressants can have dangerous side effects when taken with sertraline so it is important your doctor has a full list of your prescribed medications.

Taking antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin with sertraline can increase the risk of bleeding from your stomach. The risk and benefit of each medication needs to be weighed up.

Alcohol may increase the symptoms of anxiety and depression and therefore should be avoided.

It is not usually recommended to start sertraline during pregnancy especially in the first 3 months due to possible risks to the baby. However if you are already taking this then don't stop it until you have seen a doctor.

It is generally advised that sertraline is avoided during breastfeeding in case the medication is passed through the milk to the baby. However sometimes the benefits of treatment outweighs the risk of harm.