Sertraline Hydrochloride (Lustral, Zoloft)

AVAILABLE FORMS:
Capsule: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg
Oral concentrate: 20mg/ml
Tablets: 50mg, 100mg

INDICATIONS:

• Depression
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

MECHANISM OF ACTION:

Unknown. Thought to be linked to drug's inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin.

ADVERSE REACTION:

CNS: Headache, Tremor, Dizziness, Insomia, Somnolence, Paresthesia, Hyperthesia, Fatigue, Nervousness, Anxiety, Agitation, Hypertonia, Twitching, Confusion.

CV: Palpitaions, Chest pain, Hot Flushes.

GI: Dry mouth, Nausea, Diarrhea, Loose Stools, Dyspepsia, Vomiting, Constipation, Thirst, Flatulence, Anorexia, Abdominal pain, Increased appetite.

GU: Male sexual dysfunction

Musculoskeletal: Myalgia

Skin: Rash, Pruritus, Diaphoresis

EFFECTS ON LAB TEST RESULT:

May increase ALT, and AST levels.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Contraindicated in patients taking MAO inhibitors or within 14days of discontinuing MAO inhibitor therapy.

NURSING CONSIDERATIONS:

1. Use cautiously in patients at risk for suicide and with seizure disorders, major affective disorder or disease or conditions that affects metabolism or hemodynamic responses.
2. Administer sertraline once daily either in morning or evening. May be given with or without food.
3. Record mood changes.
4. Tell patient to avoid alcohol and consult prescriber before taking OTC drugs.
5. Instruct patient to avoid stopping the medication abruptly.