Sertraline Overdose

As with all medications, it's possible to overdose on sertraline. Symptoms of a sertraline overdose commonly include such things as drowsiness, vomiting, nausea, and increased heart rate (or slow heart rate). If you have overdosed on sertraline, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for a sertraline overdose may involve certain medications, "pumping the stomach," and supportive care to treat any symptoms that develop.

Sertraline Overdose: An Introduction

Sertraline hydrochloride (Zoloft®) is a medication that is used to treat a number of conditions within the brain. As with all medicines, it is possible for a person to overdose on sertraline. The sertraline overdose effects will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much sertraline is taken and if it is taken with any other medicines.
 

Symptoms of a Sertraline Overdose

If a person overdoses on sertraline, the symptoms can vary.
 The most common sertraline overdose symptoms include:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia) or slow heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Agitation
  • Shakiness (tremor).
     
Other sertraline overdose symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
 
Loss of life following a sertraline overdose has been reported in about 1 percent of cases. The risk of death is significantly higher when a sertraline overdose also includes other medicines.
 
(Sertraline Overdose Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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