Zoloft Is Pfizer's Trademark Name Term Paper

However, more serious side-effects may occur as a result of taking Zoloft. One of the greatest risks with Sertraline HCl is the tendency for some patients, especially those under the age of 18, to develop suicidal thoughts during the first few weeks of taking the drug. Other potentially serious side-effects include seizures, convulsions, hallucinations, tremors, balance or coordination problems, and allergic reactions.

Zoloft and other Sertraline hydrochloride compounds are contraindicated with MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) and patients taking MAOIs must cease their MAOI medication no less than 14 days before taking Zoloft. Similarly, patients who are prescribed MAOIs must wait at least two weeks after terminating their use of Zoloft. Other contraindicated medications include pimozide. Patients with a history of renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) problems must use caution when taking Zoloft. Moreover, patients with a history of mania or bipolar disorder may not be candidates for Sartraline treatment. Pregnancy and lactation will also preclude a person from taking Zoloft. Zoloft should also be used minimally if at all with serotonergic drugs such as Prozac, and CNS-active drugs such as Serzone, both of which are also used to treat depression. Other medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Zoloft or cause unwanted side effects, so patients should alert doctors to any medications they may be taking including over-the-counter remedies.

References

Long, P. (2005). Sertraline. Internet Mental Health. Retrieved online Sept 20, 2006 at http://www.mentalhealth.com/drug/p30-z02.html

Sertraline." Wikipedia. Retrieved online Sept 20, 2006 at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sertraline

Treatment for Depression and Anxiety." Zoloft.com. Retrieved Sept 20, 2006 at http://www.zoloft.com/zoloft/zoloft.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=default_home

Zoloft." (2006). Micromedex Physician's Desk Reference. Retrieved online Sept 20, 2006 at http://www.drugs.com/zoloft.html

Zoloft." (nd). Health Square. Retrieved Sept 20, 2006 at http://www.healthsquare.com/newrx/ZOL1503.HTM