Did the doctor prescribe Sertraline liquid for you too? Let's talk about this!

Your doctor may have prescribed Sertraline for your mental health. It's normal to have a few questions and concerns when starting a medication like this. "What exactly does this do?", "How do I use it?", "Are there any side effects?" You may be wondering. Don't worry, we'll talk about all of this simply and clearly today. You're not alone, and the most important thing is to be aware on this journey.

What kind of medicine is Sertraline?

Sertraline is a drug that belongs to the SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) class of drugs. Now you might be wondering what this SSRI is. Simply put, it works by controlling the levels of the chemical messenger called 'Serotonin' in our brain. This serotonin is something that has a lot to do with our mental happiness, calmness, and sleep. So this drug helps to restore your mental balance by regulating its function.

This medicine is mainly used to treat the following conditions:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication

Okay, this is very important. Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it is essential that you know your complete health history. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have and any medications you are taking. Be sure to tell your doctor about any of these conditions, especially if you have any.

• If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medication that prevents blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin, Aspirin).
• If you have bipolar disorder or if someone in your family has a history of it.
• Glaucoma condition.
• If you have heart disease, high blood pressure , or irregular heartbeat.
• If you have liver disease .
• If you have seizures .
• If you have thoughts of harming yourself or have previously attempted to do so.
• If you drink alcohol regularly .
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant , or are a breastfeeding mother .
• If you have allergies to any other medicine, food, or substance.

How exactly do you use this liquid medicine?

This is a solution, not a pill, so the method of use is a little different. So you need to remember these steps carefully.

1. First, measure the exact dose prescribed for you using the special dropper that comes with the bottle.

2. Next, add the medicine to half a glass (about 4 ounces or 120 milliliters) of water, ginger-ale, lemon-lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice and stir well.

3. Most important: Drink it all at once, as soon as you mix it. Don't save it to drink later.

4. This medicine can be taken before or after meals, but it is best to get into the habit of taking it at the same time every day.

Extremely important:

Do not mix this medicine with grapefruit juice for any reason. Also, do not mix it with anything other than the beverages mentioned above.

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

It's a good idea to pay a little more attention to your body and mind while using this medicine.

• It takes time to see results: It may take several weeks (maybe 4-6 weeks) to see the full results of this medication. Therefore, do not stop taking the medication because there is no difference in the first week. It is important to continue using it as directed by your doctor.
• Be aware of your mood: You and your family should be aware of changes in your mood, especially when you first start taking the medication. If you notice any signs of worsening depression, thoughts of harming yourself, agitation, irritability, hyperactivity, or trouble sleeping , call your doctor right away.
• Drowsiness and dizziness: Some people may experience mild drowsiness or dizziness from this medication. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know exactly how this medication affects you.
• Do not stop suddenly: Avoid stopping this medication suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause symptoms to worsen or cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Alcohol: It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

What to do if you overdose?

If you think you have accidentally taken too much medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Alternatively, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.

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