Sertima

Sertima (Sertraline) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor which is used to control major depressive disorder in adults. It is believed to work by affecting natural chemicals and neurotransmitters in the brain, such as 5HT (serotonin). Studies have taken place which indicate that it might function by selectively inhibiting the neuronal reuptake of serotonin and that its effects on dopamine and norepinephrine uptake may be considerably weak. However, treatment can help to improve mood and feelings of well being in patients with depression.

It also has other uses. Patients with OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) may be treated with it. While it can manage the symptoms of this condition, it will not fully treat the compulsions that often occur with this condition. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (premenstrual syndrome which is severe in nature) has been treated with this medicine. When used for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it was found to work better in female patients than males.

Some physicians have also treated patients for social phobia (social anxiety) and vascular headaches with this medicine. A number of studies and clinical trials have been conducted which were designed to focus on its efficacy as a potential treatment for premature ejaculation. It was shown to prolong the ejaculation time in certain patients. Another study examined its effects if used for severe refractory tinnitus.

Sertima (Sertraline) comes as tablets which are intended for administration by mouth. Each tablet is 100mg in strength. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. The adult dosage for panic disorder often differs to that required for obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder and other conditions. Your physician will determine the right dosage, and will also adjust the dosage for maintenance treatment if it is required.

However, any potential adjustments will be solely dependent on your response to treatment and the expert professional opinion of your physician. Female patients treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder have sometimes been directed by a physician to start with 50mg, taken once per day. The physician will decide whether it should be only taken during the luteal phase or else for the duration of the menstrual cycle.

Administration of Sertima (Sertraline) tablets could lead to side effects, such as:

• Insomnia
• Weight loss
• Ejaculatory delay
• Sexual dysfunction
• Cramps in the stomach

Make certain that all side effects you experience are disclosed to your physician. Some reactions may be of a much more serious nature and will necessitate immediate medical attention. Examples of this include muscle spasms, strange movements of the face, bladder control or urination problems, soreness in the eyes, joint pain and other possible serious side effects that have not been mentioned here.

Your physician will need to warn you that the medicine must not be taken with an MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitor, or if an MAO has been administered in the previous 2 weeks. A period of at least 2 weeks will also be needed after stopping this medicine before another MAO can be taken.

There is a risk that medicines like this can cause significant behavioral changes, including aggression, hostility and restlessness. Panic attacks or suicidal thoughts may even occur. See your physician straight away if this happens.