sertraline (Zoloft)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antidepressant medication like sertraline (Zoloft) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder

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What is an SSRI?

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is a class of medication commonly used to treat mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD.

How does a SSRI work?

SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a naturally-occurring brain chemical that supports the regulation of mood and memory.

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is sertraline (Zoloft) used for?

Sertraline (Zoloft) is an medication used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other related mental health disorders. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, that works by increasing the availability of serotonin in your brain.

Does sertraline (Zoloft) cause weight gain?

Changes in weight may be a side effect of antidepressant medication, but major weight changes when taking sertraline (Zoloft) are uncommon. If you have concerns about managing your weight while taking antidepressant medication, consult with your provider.

Does sertraline (Zoloft) make you tired?

Fatigue or drowsiness is a common side effect of sertraline, particularly in the first several weeks. If you experience extreme or prolonged fatigue while taking sertraline, speak with your provider — they may advise trying a new medication, changing when you take your medication, or coping strategies.

How long does it take for sertraline (Zoloft) to work?

Most SSRI medications like sertraline (Zoloft) take up to 8 weeks of regular use to be fully effective, with some people beginning to feel symptom relief as quickly as 1-2 weeks after starting.

Can you drink alcohol on sertraline (Zoloft)?

When taking a medication to support your mental health, drinking alcohol is not advised. With sertraline, it can worsen existing side effects and cause new ones. You may feel intoxicated faster and may feel significantly unwell the following day. Talk to your provider before drinking alcohol or using any other substances.

How long should I wait until sertraline (Zoloft) side effects go away?

For most people, mild side effects of taking sertraline (Zoloft) subside within days to a few weeks as your body and brain chemistry adjust. If you're experiencing negative side effects of any medication, speak with your provider — they may advise trying a new medication, changing when you take your medication, or coping strategies.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024

We offer psychiatry in these select states

Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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