✅ Uses & Indications
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE ZOLOFT is indicated for the treatment of the following [See Clinical Studies (14) ] : • Major depressive disorder (MDD) • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) • Panic disorder (PD) • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) • Social anxiety disorder (SAD) • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) ZOLOFT is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of ( 1 ): • Major depressive disorder (MDD) • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) • Panic disorder (PD) • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) • Social anxiety disorder (SAD) • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
📏 Dosage & Administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Indication Starting Dosage Maximum Dosage MDD ( 2.1 ) 50 mg per day 200 mg per day OCD ( 2.1 ) 25 mg per day (ages 6-12) 50 mg per day (ages ≥ 13) 200 mg per day PD, PTSD, SAD ( 2.1 ) 25 mg per day 200 mg per day PMDD ( 2.2 ) continuous dosing 50 mg per day 150 mg per day PMDD ( 2.2 ) intermittent dosing 50 mg per day during luteal phase only 100 mg per day during luteal phase only • If inadequate response to starting dosage, titrate in 25-50 mg per day increments once weekly in MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, and SAD ( 2.1 ) • See Full Prescribing Information for titration in PMDD ( 2.2 ) • Hepatic impairment: o Mild: Recommended starting and maximum dosage is half recommended dosage ( 2.4 ) o Moderate or severe: Not recommended ( 2.4 ) • When discontinuing ZOLOFT, reduce dose gradually ( 2.6 , 5.4 ) • Oral solution: Must be diluted before administration ( 2.7 ) 2.1 Dosage in Patients with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, and SAD The recommended initial dosage and maximum ZOLOFT dosage in patients with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, and SAD are displayed in Table 1 below. A dosage of 25 mg or 50 mg per day is the initial therapeutic dosage. For adults and pediatric patients, subsequent dosages may be increased in case of an inadequate response in 25 to 50 mg per day increments once a week, depending on tolerability, up to a maximum of 200 mg per day. Given the 24-hour elimination half-life of ZOLOFT, the recommended interval between dose changes is one week. Table 1: Recommended Daily Dosage of ZOLOFT in Patients with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, and SAD Indication Starting Dose Therapeutic Range Adults MDD 50 mg 50-200 mg OCD 50 mg PD, PTSD, SAD 25 mg Pediatric Patients OCD (ages 6-12 years old) 25 mg 50-200 mg OCD (ages 13-17 years old) 50 mg 2.2 Dosage in Patients with PMDD The recommended starting ZOLOFT dosage in adult women with PMDD is 50 mg per day. ZOLOFT may be administered either continuously (every day throughout the menstrual cycle) or intermittently (only during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, i.e., starting the daily dosage 14 days prior to the anticipated onset of menstruation and continuing through the onset of menses). Intermittent dosing would be repeated with each new cycle. • When dosing continuously , patients not responding to a 50 mg dosage may benefit from dosage increases at 50 mg increments per menstrual cycle up to 150 mg per day. • When dosing intermittently , patients not responding to a 50 mg dosage may benefit from increasing the dosage up to a maximum of 100 mg per day during the next menstrual cycle (and subsequent cycles) as follows: 50 mg per day during the first 3 days of dosing followed by 100 mg per day during the remaining days in the dosing cycle. 2.3 Screen for Bipolar Disorder Prior to Starting ZOLOFT Prior to initiating treatment with ZOLOFT or another antidepressant, screen patients for a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania [See Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . 2.4 Dosage Modifications in Patients with Hepatic Impairment Both the recommended starting dosage and therapeutic range in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child Pugh scores 5 or 6) are half the recommended daily dosage [See Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2) ] . The use of ZOLOFT in patients with moderate (Child Pugh scores 7 to 9) or severe hepatic impairment (Child Pugh scores 10-15) is not recommended [See Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.5 Switching Patients to or from a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor Antidepressant At least 14 days must elapse between discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant and initiation of ZOLOFT. In addition, at least 14 days must elapse after stopping ZOLOFT before starting an MAOI antidepressant [See Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 2.6 Discontinuation of Treatment with ZOLOFT Adverse reactions may occur upon discontinuation of ZOLOFT [See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Gradually reduce the dosage rather than stopping ZOLOFT abruptly whenever possible. 2.7 Preparation of ZOLOFT Oral Solution ZOLOFT oral solution must be diluted before use. • Use the supplied calibrated dropper to measure the amount of ZOLOFT oral solution needed • Note: The supplied calibrated dropper has 25 mg and 50 mg graduation marks only • Mix with 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of water, ginger ale, lemon/lime soda, lemonade or orange juice ONLY. After mixing, a slight haze may appear, which is normal. Instruct patients or caregivers to immediately take the dose after mixing.
💊 Side Effects
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are described in more detail in other sections of the prescribing information: • Hypersensitivity reactions to sertraline [See Contraindications (4) ] • Disulfiram-alcohol reaction when ZOLOFT oral solution is taken with disulfiram [See Contraindications (4) ] • QTc prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when taken with pimozide [See Contraindications (4) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors [See Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Serotonin syndrome [See Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] • Increased risk of bleeding [See Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Activation of mania/hypomania [See Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Discontinuation syndrome [See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Seizures [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Angle-closure glaucoma [See Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Hyponatremia [See Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Sexual Dysfunction [See Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Most common adverse reactions (≥5% and twice placebo) in pooled placebo-controlled MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD and PMDD clinical trials were nausea, diarrhea/loose stool, tremor, dyspepsia, decreased appetite, hyperhidrosis, ejaculation failure, and decreased libido. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Viatris at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below are from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of ZOLOFT (mostly 50 mg to 200 mg per day) in 3066 adults diagnosed with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD, and PMDD. These 3066 patients exposed to ZOLOFT for 8 to12 weeks represent 568 patient-years of exposure. The mean age was 40 years; 57% were females and 43% were males. The most common adverse reactions (≥5% and twice placebo) in all pooled placebo-controlled clinical trials of all ZOLOFT-treated patients with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD and PMDD were nausea, diarrhea/loose stool, tremor, dyspepsia, decreased appetite, hyperhidrosis, ejaculation failure, and decreased libido (see Table 3). The following are the most common adverse reactions in trials of ZOLOFT (≥5% and twice placebo) by indication that were not mentioned previously. • MDD: somnolence; • OCD: insomnia, agitation; • PD: constipation, agitation; • PTSD: fatigue; • PMDD: somnolence, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, and abdominal pain; • SAD: insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, malaise. Table 3: Common Adverse Reactions in Pooled Placebo-Controlled Trials in Adults with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD, and PMDD Adverse reactions that occurred greater than 2% in ZOLOFT-treated patients and at least 2% greater in ZOLOFT-treated patients than placebo-treated patients. ZOLOFT (N=3066) Placebo (N=2293) Cardiac disorders Palpitations 4% 2% Eye disorders Visual impairment 4% 2% Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea 26% 12% Diarrhea/Loose stools 20% 10% Dry mouth 14% 9% Dyspepsia 8% 4% Constipation 6% 4% Vomiting 4% 1% General disorders and administration site conditions Fatigue 12% 8% Metabolism and nutrition disorders Decreased appetite 7% 2% Nervous system disorders Dizziness 12% 8% Somnolence 11% 6% Tremor 9% 2% Psychiatric disorders Insomnia 20% 13% Agitation 8% 5% Libido decreased 6% 2% Reproductive system and breast disorders Ejaculation failure Denominator used was for male patients only (n=1316 ZOLOFT; n=973 placebo). 8% 1% Erectile dysfunction 4% 1% Ejaculation disorder 3% 0% Male sexual dysfunctiom 2% 0% Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Hyperhidrosis 7% 3% Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation in Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials In all placebo-controlled studies in patients with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD and PMDD, 368 (12%) of the 3066 patients who received ZOLOFT discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 93 (4%) of the 2293 placebo-treated patients. In placebo-controlled studies, the following were the common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in ZOLOFT-treated patients: • MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD and PMDD: nausea (3%), diarrhea (2%), agitation (2%), and insomnia (2%). • MDD (>2% and twice placebo): decreased appetite, dizziness, fatigue, headache, somnolence, tremor, and vomiting. • OCD: somnolence. • PD: nervousness and somnolence. Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction Although changes in sexual desire, sexual performance and sexual satisfaction often occur as manifestations of a psychiatric disorder, they may also be a consequence of SSRI treatment. However, reliable estimates of the incidence and severity of untoward experiences involving sexual desire, performance and satisfaction are difficult to obtain, in part because patients and healthcare providers may be reluctant to discuss them. Accordingly, estimates of the incidence of untoward sexual experience and performance cited in labeling may underestimate their actual incidence. Table 4 below displays the incidence of sexual adverse reactions reported by at least 2% of ZOLOFT-treated patients and twice placebo from pooled placebo-controlled trials. For men and all indications, the most common adverse reactions (>2% and twice placebo) included: ejaculation failure, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder, and male sexual dysfunction. For women, the most common adverse reaction (≥2% and twice placebo) was decreased libido. Table 4: Most Common Sexual Adverse Reactions (≥2% and twice placebo) in Men or Women from ZOLOFT Pooled Controlled Trials in Adults with MDD, OCD, PD, PTSD, SAD, and PMDD ZOLOFT Placebo Men only (N=1316) (N=973) Ejaculation failure 8% 1% Libido decreased 7% 2% Erectile dysfunction 4% 1% Ejaculation disorder 3% 0% Male sexual dysfunction 2% 0% Women only (N=1750) (N=1320) Libido decreased 4% 2% Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients In 281 pediatric patients treated with ZOLOFT in placebo-controlled studies, the overall profile of adverse reactions was generally similar to that seen in adult studies. Adverse reactions that do not appear in Table 3 (most common adverse reactions in adults) yet were reported in at least 2% of pediatric patients and at a rate of at least twice the placebo rate include fever, hyperkinesia, urinary incontinence, aggression, epistaxis, purpura, arthralgia, decreased weight, muscle twitching, and anxiety. Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Premarketing Evaluation of ZOLOFT Other infrequent adverse reactions, not described elsewhere in the prescribing information, occurring at an incidence of < 2% in patients treated with ZOLOFT were: Cardiac disorders - tachycardia Ear and labyrinth disorders - tinnitus Endocrine disorders - hypothyroidism Eye disorders - mydriasis, blurred vision Gastrointestinal disorders - hematochezia, melena, rectal hemorrhage General disorders and administration site conditions - edema, gait disturbance, irritability, pyrexia Hepatobiliary disorders - elevated liver enzymes Immune system disorders - anaphylaxis Metabolism and nutrition disorders - diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, hypoglycemia, increased appetite Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders - arthralgia, muscle spasms, tightness, or twitching Nervous system disorders - ataxia, coma, convulsion, decreased alertness, hypoesthesia, lethargy, psychomotor hyperactivity, syncope Psychiatric disorders - aggression, bruxism, confusional state, euphoric mood, hallucination Renal and urinary disorders - hematuria Reproductive system and breast disorders - galactorrhea, priapism, vaginal hemorrhage Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders - bronchospasm, epistaxis, yawning Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders - alopecia; cold sweat; dermatitis; dermatitis bullous; pruritus; purpura; erythematous, follicular, or maculopapular rash; urticaria Vascular disorders - hemorrhage, hypertension, vasodilation 6.2 Post-marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of ZOLOFT. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Bleeding or clotting disorders - increased coagulation times (altered platelet function) Cardiac disorders - AV block, bradycardia, atrial arrhythmias, QTc-interval prolongation, ventricular tachycardia (including Torsade de Pointes) [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] Endocrine disorders - gynecomastia, hyperprolactinemia, menstrual irregularities, SIADH Eye disorders - blindness, optic neuritis, cataract Hepatobiliary disorders - severe liver events (including hepatitis, jaundice, liver failure with some fatal outcomes), pancreatitis Hemic and lymphatic disorders - agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia and pancytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, lupus-like syndrome, serum sickness Immune system disorders - angioedema Metabolism and nutrition disorders - hyponatremia, hyperglycemia Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders - rhabdomyolysis, trismus Nervous system disorders - serotonin syndrome, extrapyramidal symptoms (including akathisia and dystonia), oculogyric crisis Psychiatric disorders - psychosis, enuresis, paroniria Renal and urinary disorders - acute renal failure Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders - pulmonary hypertension, eosinophilic pneumonia, anosmia, hyposmia Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders - photosensitivity skin reaction and other severe cutaneous reactions, which potentially can be fatal, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) Vascular disorders - cerebrovascular spasm (including reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and Call‑Fleming syndrome), vasculitis
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue ZOLOFT and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive treatment. ( 5.2 ) • Increased Risk of Bleeding: Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may increase this risk. ( 5.3 ) • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Screen patients for bipolar disorder. ( 5.4 ) • Seizures: Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders. ( 5.6 ) • Angle Closure Glaucoma: Avoid use of antidepressants, including ZOLOFT, in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles. ( 5.7 ) • QTc Prolongation: ZOLOFT should be used with caution in patients with risk factors for QTc prolongation. ( 5.10 ) • Sexual Dysfunction: ZOLOFT may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction. ( 5.11 ) 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and other antidepressant classes) that included approximately 77,000 adult patients and over 4,400 pediatric patients, the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients was greater in antidepressant-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1000 patients treated are provided in Table 2. No suicides occurred in any of the pediatric studies. There were suicides in the adult studies, but the number was not sufficient to reach any conclusion about antidepressant drug effect on suicide. Table 2: Risk Differences of the Number of Cases of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors in the Pooled Placebo-Controlled Trials of Antidepressants in Pediatric and Adult Patients Age Range (years) Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Patients of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors per 1000 Patients Treated Increases Compared to Placebo <18 14 additional patients 18-24 5 additional patients Decreases Compared to Placebo 25-64 1 fewer patient ≥65 6 fewer patients It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with MDD that antidepressants delay the recurrence of depression. Monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the healthcare provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing ZOLOFT, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 5.2 Serotonin Syndrome Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including ZOLOFT, can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, meperidine, methadone, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort) and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin, i.e., MAOIs [See Contraindications (4) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Serotonin syndrome can also occur when these drugs are used alone . Serotonin syndrome signs and symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, and gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). The concomitant use of ZOLOFT with MAOIs is contraindicated. In addition, do not initiate ZOLOFT in a patient being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. No reports involved the administration of methylene blue by other routes (such as oral tablets or local tissue injection). If it is necessary to initiate treatment with an MAOI such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue in a patient taking ZOLOFT, discontinue ZOLOFT before initiating treatment with the MAOI [See Contraindications (4) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Monitor all patients taking ZOLOFT for the emergence of serotonin syndrome. Discontinue treatment with ZOLOFT and any concomitant serotonergic agents immediately if the above symptoms occur, and initiate supportive symptomatic treatment. If concomitant use of ZOLOFT with other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome and monitor for symptoms. 5.3 Increased Risk of Bleeding Drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake inhibition, including ZOLOFT, increase the risk of bleeding events. Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may add to this risk. Case reports and epidemiological studies (case-control and cohort design) have demonstrated an association between use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding. Based on data from the published observational studies, exposure to SSRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Bleeding events related to drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake have ranged from ecchymosis, hematoma, epistaxis, and petechiae to life-threatening hemorrhages . Inform patients of the increased risk of bleeding associated with the concomitant use of ZOLOFT and antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants. For patients taking warfarin, carefully monitor the international normalized ratio. 5.4 Activation of Mania or Hypomania In patients with bipolar disorder, treating a depressive episode with ZOLOFT or another antidepressant may precipitate a mixed/manic episode. In controlled clinical trials, patients with bipolar disorder were generally excluded; however, symptoms of mania or hypomania were reported in 0.4% of patients treated with ZOLOFT. Prior to initiating treatment with ZOLOFT, screen patients for any personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania. 5.5 Discontinuation Syndrome Adverse reactions after discontinuation of serotonergic antidepressants, particularly after abrupt discontinuation, include: nausea, sweating, dysphoric mood, irritability, agitation, dizziness, sensory disturbances (e.g., paresthesia, such as electric shock sensations), tremor, anxiety, confusion, headache, lethargy, emotional lability, insomnia, hypomania, tinnitus, and seizures. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible [See Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . 5.6 Seizures ZOLOFT has not been systematically evaluated in patients with seizure disorders. Patients with a history of seizures were excluded from clinical studies. ZOLOFT should be prescribed with caution in patients with a seizure disorder. 5.7 Angle-Closure Glaucoma The pupillary dilation that occurs following use of many antidepressant drugs including ZOLOFT may trigger an angle closure attack in a patient with anatomically narrow angles who does not have a patent iridectomy. Avoid use of antidepressants, including ZOLOFT, in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles. 5.8 Hyponatremia Hyponatremia may occur as a result of treatment with SNRIs and SSRIs, including ZOLOFT. Cases with serum sodium lower than 110 mmol/L have been reported. Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness, and unsteadiness, which may lead to falls. Signs and symptoms associated with more severe or acute cases have included hallucination, syncope, seizure, coma, respiratory arrest, and death. In many cases, this hyponatremia appears to be the result of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). In patients with symptomatic hyponatremia, discontinue ZOLOFT and institute appropriate medical intervention. Elderly patients, patients taking diuretics, and those who are volume-depleted may be at greater risk of developing hyponatremia with SSRIs and SNRIs [See Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ] . 5.9 False-Positive Effects on Screening Tests for Benzodiazepines False-positive urine immunoassay screening tests for benzodiazepines have been reported in patients taking ZOLOFT. This finding is due to lack of specificity of the screening tests. False-positive test results may be expected for several days following discontinuation of ZOLOFT. Confirmatory tests, such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, will help distinguish ZOLOFT from benzodiazepines [See Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . 5.10 QTc Prolongation During post-marketing use of sertraline, cases of QTc prolongation and Torsade de Pointes (TdP) have been reported. Most reports were confounded by other risk factors. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo- and positive-controlled three-period crossover thorough QTc study in 54 healthy adult subjects, there was a positive relationship between the length of the rate-adjusted QTc interval and serum sertraline concentration. Therefore, ZOLOFT should be used with caution in patients with risk factors for QTc prolongation [See Drug Interactions (7.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . 5.11 Sexual Dysfunction Use of SSRIs, including ZOLOFT, may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . In male patients, SSRI use may result in ejaculatory delay or failure, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. In female patients, SSRI use may result in decreased libido and delayed or absent orgasm. It is important for prescribers to inquire about sexual function prior to initiation of ZOLOFT and to inquire specifically about changes in sexual function during treatment, because sexual function may not be spontaneously reported. When evaluating changes in sexual function, obtaining a detailed history (including timing of symptom onset) is important because sexual symptoms may have other causes, including the underlying psychiatric disorder. Discuss potential management strategies to support patients in making informed decisions about treatment.
🔄 Drug Interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Protein-bound drugs: Monitor for adverse reactions and reduce dosage of ZOLOFT or other protein-bound drugs (e.g., warfarin) as warranted. ( 7.1 , 12.3 ) • CYP2D6 substrates: Reduce dosage of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6. ( 7.1 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Clinically Significant Drug Interactions Table 5 includes clinically significant drug interactions with ZOLOFT [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Table 5. Clinically-Significant Drug Interactions with ZOLOFT Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of SSRIs including ZOLOFT and MAOIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention: ZOLOFT is contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs, including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue [See Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Examples: selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, methylene blue Pimozide Clinical Impact: Increased plasma concentrations of pimozide, a drug with a narrow therapeutic index, may increase the risk of QTc prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Intervention: Concomitant use of pimozide and ZOLOFT is contraindicated [See Contraindications (4) ]. Other Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of serotonergic drugs with ZOLOFT increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention: Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during treatment initiation and dosage increases. If serotonin syndrome occurs, consider discontinuation of ZOLOFT and/or concomitant serotonergic drugs [See Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Examples: Other SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis (antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants) Clinical Impact: The concurrent use of an antiplatelet agent or anticoagulant with ZOLOFT may potentiate the risk of bleeding. Intervention: Inform patients of the increased risk of bleeding associated with the concomitant use of ZOLOFT and antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants. For patients taking warfarin, carefully monitor the international normalized ratio [See Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Examples: aspirin, clopidogrel, heparin, warfarin Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Protein Clinical Impact: ZOLOFT is highly bound to plasma protein. The concomitant use of ZOLOFT with another drug that is highly bound to plasma protein may increase free concentrations of ZOLOFT or other tightly-bound drugs in plasma [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Intervention: Monitor for adverse reactions and reduce dosage of ZOLOFT or other protein-bound drugs as warranted. Examples: warfarin Drugs Metabolized by CYP2D6 Clinical Impact: ZOLOFT is a CYP2D6 inhibitor [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . The concomitant use of ZOLOFT with a CYP2D6 substrate may increase the exposure of the CYP2D6 substrate. Intervention: Decrease the dosage of a CYP2D6 substrate if needed with concomitant ZOLOFT use. Conversely, an increase in dosage of a CYP2D6 substrate may be needed if ZOLOFT is discontinued. Examples: propafenone, flecainide, atomoxetine, desipramine, dextromethorphan, metoprolol, nebivolol, perphenazine, thioridazine, tolterodine, venlafaxine Phenytoin Clinical Impact: Phenytoin is a narrow therapeutic index drug. ZOLOFT may increase phenytoin concentrations. Intervention: Monitor phenytoin levels when initiating or titrating ZOLOFT. Reduce phenytoin dosage if needed. Examples: phenytoin, fosphenytoin Drugs that Prolong the QTc Interval Clinical Impact: The risk of QTc prolongation and/or ventricular arrhythmias (e.g., TdP) is increased with concomitant use of other drugs which prolong the QTc interval [See Warnings and Precautions (5.10) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . Intervention: Pimozide is contraindicated for use with sertraline. Avoid the concomitant use of drugs known to prolong the QTc interval. Examples: Specific antipsychotics (e.g., ziprasidone, iloperidone, chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, droperidol); specific antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin, sparfloxacin); Class 1A antiarrhythmic medications (e.g., quinidine, procainamide); Class III antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol); and others (e.g., pentamidine, levomethadyl acetate, methadone, halofantrine, mefloquine, dolasetron mesylate, probucol or tacrolimus). 7.2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with ZOLOFT Based on pharmacokinetic studies, no dosage adjustment of ZOLOFT is necessary when used in combination with cimetidine. Additionally, no dosage adjustment is required for diazepam, lithium, atenolol, tolbutamide, digoxin, and drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, when ZOLOFT is administered concomitantly [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 7.3 False-Positive Screening Tests for Benzodiazepines False-positive urine immunoassay screening tests for benzodiazepines have been reported in patients taking ZOLOFT. This finding is due to lack of specificity of the screening tests. False-positive test results may be expected for several days following discontinuation of ZOLOFT. Confirmatory tests, such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, will distinguish sertraline from benzodiazepines.
🚫 Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS ZOLOFT is contraindicated in patients: • Taking, or within 14 days of stopping, MAOIs, (including the MAOIs linezolid and intravenous methylene blue) because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [See Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . • Taking pimozide [See Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . • With known hypersensitivity to sertraline (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema) [See Adverse Reactions (6.1 , 6.2) ] . In addition to the contraindications for all ZOLOFT formulations listed above, ZOLOFT oral solution is contraindicated in patients: • Taking disulfiram. ZOLOFT oral solution contains alcohol, and concomitant use of ZOLOFT and disulfiram may result in a disulfiram-alcohol reaction. • Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or use within 14 days of stopping MAOIs ( 4 , 7.1 ) • Concomitant use of pimozide ( 4 , 7.1 ) • Known hypersensitivity to sertraline or excipients ( 4 , 5.4 ) • ZOLOFT oral solution only: Concomitant use of disulfiram ( 4 )
📦 Storage & Handling
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING ZOLOFT 25 mg tablets: light green, film-coated, capsular-shaped tablets engraved on one side with “ZOLOFT” and on the other side scored and engraved with “25 mg” NDC 58151-574-93 Bottles of 30 ZOLOFT 50 mg tablets: light blue, film-coated, capsular-shaped tablets engraved on one side with “ZOLOFT” and on the other side scored and engraved with “50 mg” NDC 58151-575-93 Bottles of 30 NDC 58151-575-88 Unit Dose Packages of 100 ZOLOFT 100 mg tablets: light yellow, film-coated, capsular-shaped, tablets engraved on one side with “ZOLOFT” and on the other side scored and engraved with “100 mg” NDC 58151-576-93 Bottles of 30 NDC 58151-576-88 Unit Dose Packages of 100 ZOLOFT oral solution: clear, colorless solution with a menthol scent containing sertraline hydrochloride equivalent to 20 mg of sertraline per mL and 12% alcohol NDC 58151-601-35 Bottles containing 60 mL, each with an accompanying calibrated dropper that has 25 mg and 50 mg graduation marks. Store ZOLOFT at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].