Product description Sertraline 100mg for depression
What Sertraline 100mg is
Sertraline 100mg is a film-coated tablet containing 100 milligrams of sertraline (as sertraline hydrochloride). Firstly, sertraline belongs to a family of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Additionally, it works on the brain’s serotonin system to help regulate mood. Meanwhile, generic sertraline is manufactured by several UK-approved companies including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Aurobindo Pharma (Milpharm), and others. The branded version is Lustral, made by Pfizer. As a result, the same active ingredient is available under different names but at the same clinical standard.
How SSRIs work
Depression involves changes in several brain chemicals, including serotonin. In particular, serotonin is a chemical messenger that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and thinking. Meanwhile, SSRIs like sertraline increase serotonin activity in the brain by blocking its reabsorption into nerve cells. Additionally, this gives serotonin more time to send its signals between nerve cells. As a result, over several weeks, brain circuits involved in mood regulation gradually adjust. Notably, this is why sertraline takes time to work rather than acting instantly like a painkiller.
A treatment that needs regular review
Sertraline is not a self-service medicine. Firstly, starting an antidepressant is a clinical decision that needs proper assessment. Additionally, ongoing review matters throughout treatment, especially in the first few weeks and if the dose changes. Meanwhile, patients under 25 need closer monitoring, particularly early in treatment. Furthermore, stopping sertraline needs to be planned with tapering to avoid discontinuation effects. As a result, at Courier Pharmacy, sertraline is always dispensed through a full prescriber-led consultation with clear plans for review.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredient: sertraline 100 mg (as sertraline hydrochloride)
Form: film-coated tablet, usually white to off-white, capsule-shaped, with a break line
Pack sizes: commonly 28 tablets (one month) or 30 tablets
Manufacturers: multiple UK-licensed generic manufacturers; branded version is Lustral (Pfizer)
Sertraline is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the UK. Firstly, it belongs to a family of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Additionally, it’s licensed for depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Meanwhile, 100mg is a step-up dose typically prescribed when 50mg (the standard starting dose) hasn’t given sufficient response, or when the target dose from the start of treatment is set higher based on the clinical picture. At Courier Pharmacy, sertraline is prescribed through a full clinical consultation with a UK-qualified prescriber, with ongoing review throughout treatment.
If you need urgent help now
If you’re in immediate danger, or you feel you might harm yourself or someone else, please seek help right now. Meanwhile, the information below is for general education about sertraline. It isn’t a substitute for talking to someone.
Samaritans: call 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
SHOUT: text SHOUT to 85258 for free crisis text support in the UK
NHS 111: call 111 and choose the mental health option
For immediate danger to life: call 999 or go to your nearest A&E
Five key takeaways
Sertraline 100mg is a once-daily SSRI tablet, a step-up dose from the 50mg starting dose.
Licensed for major depressive episodes, panic disorder, OCD (from age 6), social anxiety disorder, and PTSD.
Most people notice some benefit within 2 to 4 weeks and full effect at 6 to 8 weeks.
Requires a prescriber-led consultation and ongoing review, including particular monitoring for patients under 25.
Sertraline 100mg is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews every request at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
What is Sertraline 100mg: overview
Where sertraline fits in the NICE depression pathway
NICE NG222 (published in 2022) covers depression in adults. In particular, it recommends a range of first-line options for less severe depression including guided self-help, group CBT, individual CBT, or an SSRI. Additionally, for more severe depression, combined therapy (antidepressant plus talking therapy) is recommended. Meanwhile, sertraline is one of the SSRIs specifically named by NICE for depression treatment. As a result, sertraline’s clinical position in UK practice is well-established rather than experimental.
Sertraline vs other SSRIs
Meanwhile, several SSRIs exist and share the same broad mechanism. In particular, they differ in half-life, side-effect profile, drug interactions, and evidence in specific populations. Additionally, sertraline is often chosen because it has relatively few drug interactions compared to some other SSRIs, and because its evidence base covers multiple anxiety disorders as well as depression. However, no single SSRI is the right choice for everyone. As a result, your prescriber picks based on your medical history, other medicines you take, and any previous experience with antidepressants.
A course of weeks or months, not a quick fix
Antidepressant treatment for depression is typically continued for at least 6 to 9 months after symptoms improve. Firstly, this reduces the risk of relapse. Additionally, some patients need longer-term treatment, especially those who have had multiple episodes of depression. Meanwhile, the decision on how long to continue is made with your prescriber based on your circumstances. Above all, sertraline is not a short course like a two-week antibiotic; it’s a longer-term commitment to feeling better.
Talking therapy alongside medication
NICE recommends that antidepressants work best alongside talking therapy for most people with depression. In particular, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, or behavioural activation are commonly offered. Meanwhile, these can be accessed via NHS Talking Therapies (self-referral in England) or through private providers. Additionally, some patients find lifestyle changes (exercise, sleep hygiene, social connection) important alongside treatment. As a result, sertraline is one part of a wider approach rather than the only thing that helps.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Sertraline 100mg
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy. The General Pharmaceutical Council regulates us. Firstly, depression looks different for every patient. Additionally, your symptom pattern, other health conditions, other medicines, and previous treatment history all matter. As a result, our prescribers ask about those things properly rather than treating antidepressant prescribing as a tick-box exercise. Getting your mental health treatment right is about the fit and the follow-up.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
Antidepressant treatment isn’t a one-off transaction. Furthermore, we build in ongoing review from the start. Additionally, if side effects appear in the first few weeks, we’re here to help you decide whether they’re likely to settle or whether the treatment needs adjusting. Meanwhile, when the time comes to reduce the dose or stop, we help plan the tapering safely. For patients navigating depression alongside other health concerns, hormonal changes, or a difficult life stage, that continuity matters.
Free fortnightly drop-in clinics in Derby
Healthcare shouldn’t only happen when you’re paying for it. Every fortnight, we run free drop-in talks at Insomnia, Derby, from 10 am to 12 pm. Anyone can come. No appointment. No cost. No pressure. We cover mental health, hormones, skincare, hair loss, and more.
Buy Sertraline 100mg (Prescription Only) from Courier Pharmacy
Sertraline 100mg is a Prescription Only Medicine. You can request it at courierpharmacy.co.uk. Firstly, complete a full online consultation. Then, a UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers carefully. If sertraline is appropriate for you, we dispense and deliver discreetly with a clear follow-up plan.
Complete a full online consultation covering symptoms, history, and other medicines
A UK prescriber reviews your consultation and may follow up with questions
If approved, a prescription is issued and dispensed
We deliver discreetly and set up your review schedule
If sertraline isn’t the right treatment for you, we’ll explain why and suggest better routes. Sometimes GP referral, talking therapy, or a different medicine is the right next step. Above all, we won’t dispense sertraline just because it was requested.
Summary
A once-daily SSRI antidepressant licensed for depression and several anxiety disorders.
100mg is a step-up dose, prescribed when 50mg (the standard starting dose) hasn’t given sufficient response.
Sits within the SSRI class alongside citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, and paroxetine.
Recommended by NICE as a first-line antidepressant option in NG222 (depression in adults) alongside talking therapy.
Requires prescriber-led treatment with ongoing review, particularly for patients under 25.
Active ingredient in Sertraline 100mg
Sertraline hydrochloride
The active ingredient is sertraline, provided as sertraline hydrochloride. In particular, each tablet delivers 100 milligrams of sertraline. Meanwhile, sertraline is an SSRI with a 24-hour elimination half-life, which supports once-daily dosing. Additionally, it's converted in the liver by CYP2C19, CYP2B6, and CYP2C9 enzymes, with a much less active metabolite called N-desmethylsertraline. As a result, the parent drug is responsible for the clinical effect.
Tablet composition
Meanwhile, the tablet includes standard excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, calcium hydrogen phosphate, and magnesium stearate. Additionally, the film coating typically uses hypromellose, titanium dioxide, and other standard coating agents. Furthermore, each tablet contains less than 1 mmol of sodium, so is essentially sodium-free. As a result, sodium restriction generally isn't a barrier to sertraline treatment.
What is Sertraline 100mg for?
Depression (major depressive episodes)
Sertraline is licensed for the treatment of major depressive episodes and for prevention of recurrence of depression. In particular, this covers moderate to severe depression that meets diagnostic criteria. Meanwhile, mild depression is often managed initially with self-help, exercise, and talking therapy rather than medication. Additionally, decisions about starting an antidepressant are based on the severity, duration, and impact of symptoms alongside patient preference.
Other licensed uses
Beyond depression, sertraline is licensed for several other conditions. Firstly, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Additionally, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults and children from age 6. Meanwhile, social anxiety disorder (social phobia). Furthermore, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As a result, sertraline is one of the most widely-used SSRIs in UK mental health practice.
What sertraline won't fix
Above all, sertraline is a medicine for specific mental health conditions, not a general mood enhancer. In particular, it isn't licensed for grief, life dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, or ordinary stress. Additionally, it won't fix underlying life circumstances that are contributing to low mood. Meanwhile, it works best when combined with talking therapy and lifestyle support. Furthermore, some patients don't respond to sertraline and need a different antidepressant or approach. As a result, sertraline is one tool among several, not a universal solution.
How does Sertraline 100mg work?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibition
Nerve cells communicate using chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. Firstly, serotonin is one of these, and it plays a role in mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions. Additionally, after nerve cells release serotonin, they normally reabsorb it via a transporter protein. Meanwhile, sertraline blocks this reabsorption selectively, meaning serotonin stays in the space between nerve cells for longer. Furthermore, this increased signalling gradually influences the brain circuits involved in mood regulation. As a result, mood, sleep, and other functions can gradually improve over weeks.
Why it takes weeks to work
Increased serotonin signalling happens quickly after starting sertraline. However, the clinical benefit builds slowly. In particular, this is because the effect depends on gradual changes in brain circuitry, receptor sensitivity, and downstream gene expression. Meanwhile, these adaptations take weeks to develop. Additionally, this is why sertraline is not a quick-acting medicine and why consistent daily dosing over several weeks matters. Above all, don't judge whether sertraline is working in the first two weeks.
How to take Sertraline 100mg
When and how
Take one 100mg tablet once daily. In particular, take it at roughly the same time each day. Additionally, either morning or evening is fine; consistency matters more than the specific time. Meanwhile, if sertraline makes you feel sleepy, evening dosing may suit you. Furthermore, if it causes insomnia, morning dosing usually helps. As a result, work with your prescriber to find the timing that suits your response.
With or without food
Sertraline can be taken with or without food. Additionally, food may reduce mild gastrointestinal side effects like nausea in the first few weeks. Meanwhile, swallow the tablet whole with water. Furthermore, if you find swallowing difficult, sertraline is also available as an oral suspension (liquid) via specialist prescription.
Alcohol
Alcohol is not recommended during sertraline treatment. In particular, alcohol can worsen depression symptoms directly and undermine treatment. Additionally, it can increase sedation and reduce the clarity of thought needed for early recovery. Meanwhile, occasional light drinking is unlikely to be dangerous but is generally advised against. As a result, discuss alcohol use with your prescriber during consultation.
Treatment dosage Sertraline 100mg for depression
Adult dose for depression at 100mg
For adults with depression, the licensed starting dose is 50 milligrams once daily. In particular, if response is inadequate after several weeks at 50mg, the dose can be increased to 100 milligrams once daily. Additionally, dose increases are typically made in 50mg steps at intervals of at least one week. Meanwhile, 100mg is often the target dose for patients whose initial response at 50mg was partial or slow. Furthermore, the maximum licensed dose is 200 milligrams once daily. Any dose changes should be made by your prescriber. The BNF and Sertraline 100mg Summary of Product Characteristics confirm these directions.
How long until it works
Sertraline is not a quick-acting medicine. Firstly, some improvement in mood, sleep, or appetite may appear within 1 to 2 weeks. Additionally, most patients notice more meaningful benefit at 2 to 4 weeks. Meanwhile, full effect usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. Above all, don't stop taking sertraline in the first few weeks just because you don't feel different. As a result, patience and consistent daily dosing over the first six weeks give the medicine the best chance of working.
Stopping sertraline (tapering)
Above all, don't stop sertraline suddenly. In particular, stopping abruptly can cause discontinuation symptoms including flu-like feelings, sensory disturbances (electric-shock or 'zapping' sensations), dizziness, sleep problems, and mood changes. Additionally, these symptoms are usually brief but can be very unpleasant. Meanwhile, your prescriber will guide you through a gradual dose reduction over weeks or months when the time comes to stop. Furthermore, this planned tapering approach reduces the risk of discontinuation effects significantly.
Missed doses
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's nearly time for the next dose. Meanwhile, don't take two doses to catch up. Additionally, occasional missed doses aren't dangerous but consistent daily use gives the best benefit. As a result, if you're frequently missing doses, talk to your prescriber about strategies to make the routine easier.
Warnings and precautions for Sertraline 100mg
Suicidal thoughts and behaviours, especially under 25
Antidepressants can occasionally increase suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviour, particularly in patients under 25. In particular, this risk is highest in the first few weeks of treatment and after dose changes. Additionally, family, friends, and prescribers should watch for signs of worsening mood, agitation, or new suicidal thinking. Meanwhile, if you or someone close to you notices concerning changes, contact your prescriber urgently. Furthermore, if you're in immediate danger, contact the crisis services listed at the start and end of this page. Above all, the risk of untreated depression itself remains higher than the risk from treatment for most patients.
Bipolar disorder screening
Sertraline can occasionally trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in patients with underlying bipolar disorder. In particular, this is why it's important to disclose any history of mania, hypomania, or mood episodes that felt unusually 'high' during consultation. Meanwhile, bipolar depression is often better treated with different approaches. Additionally, family history of bipolar disorder is also relevant. As a result, careful history-taking is part of prescriber-led sertraline treatment.
Serotonin syndrome
Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially serious reaction when serotonin activity becomes excessive. In particular, symptoms include high fever, sweating, muscle rigidity, tremor, agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and unstable blood pressure. Meanwhile, the risk is much higher when sertraline is combined with other serotonergic drugs (see Drug interactions). Additionally, if you develop these symptoms, seek urgent medical help immediately. As a result, always tell prescribers you're taking sertraline before starting any new medicine.
Bleeding risk
SSRIs including sertraline can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in the gut. Firstly, this risk is higher when combined with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, aspirin, or anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs). Additionally, it may present as unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Meanwhile, patients on these combinations may benefit from a proton pump inhibitor for stomach protection. As a result, tell your prescriber about all other medicines you take.
Hyponatraemia (low sodium)
SSRIs can occasionally cause low blood sodium (hyponatraemia), especially in older adults. In particular, symptoms include headache, difficulty concentrating, confusion, weakness, and in severe cases seizures. Meanwhile, this is more common in patients over 65 or those on diuretics. Additionally, if you develop these symptoms, seek medical assessment promptly. As a result, older adults may need periodic sodium checks during treatment.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Decisions about sertraline in pregnancy are individual and need specialist input. In particular, untreated depression in pregnancy carries risks for both parent and baby. Meanwhile, sertraline is one of the more commonly used SSRIs in pregnancy where treatment is judged necessary. Additionally, use in late pregnancy has been associated with a small increased risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. Furthermore, sertraline passes into breast milk in small amounts but is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. As a result, discuss pregnancy, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding with your prescriber.
Discontinuation syndrome
Do not stop sertraline suddenly. Firstly, sudden stopping can cause a discontinuation syndrome with flu-like symptoms, dizziness, sensory disturbances ('brain zaps'), sleep problems, and mood changes. Additionally, these symptoms are usually brief but can be very unpleasant. Meanwhile, planned gradual tapering under prescriber guidance reduces this risk significantly. Above all, if you want to stop sertraline, plan this with your prescriber over weeks or months rather than stopping suddenly.
Side effects of Sertraline 100mg
Common start-up effects (first 2 to 4 weeks)
The most common early side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, headache, insomnia or drowsiness, dry mouth, and mild anxiety or restlessness. In particular, these often settle within the first 2 to 4 weeks as your body adapts. Meanwhile, they're usually mild and manageable. Additionally, taking sertraline with food can reduce nausea. As a result, don't stop treatment in the first few weeks based on these effects alone; contact your prescriber to discuss whether to continue, adjust timing, or change dose.
Sexual side effects
SSRIs including sertraline can cause sexual side effects. In particular, this includes reduced libido, delayed or absent orgasm, and (in men) delayed ejaculation. Meanwhile, these effects are common and often persist while on treatment. Additionally, they usually resolve after stopping sertraline, though rare cases of persistent effects have been reported. Furthermore, if sexual side effects are troublesome, discuss with your prescriber; sometimes dose adjustment, timing changes, or switching medicines can help. As a result, this is a topic worth raising openly during review.
Weight changes
Sertraline can cause weight changes in either direction. In particular, some patients lose weight early in treatment (often related to nausea or reduced appetite). Meanwhile, others gain weight over months of treatment. Additionally, the effect varies substantially between individuals. Furthermore, if weight changes are troublesome, discuss with your prescriber. As a result, weight isn't usually a reason to avoid sertraline but is worth monitoring.
Serious side effects requiring urgent help
Seek urgent help for signs of serotonin syndrome (high fever, muscle rigidity, agitation, confusion). Similarly, seek help for suicidal thoughts or new self-harming urges, especially in the first few weeks. Additionally, seek help for signs of severe allergic reaction (facial swelling, difficulty breathing, widespread rash). Meanwhile, unusual bleeding or bruising warrants prescriber contact. Furthermore, symptoms of low sodium (severe headache, confusion, weakness) need medical assessment. Above all, if you're in immediate danger, contact the crisis services listed at the top and bottom of this page.
Yellow Card reporting
Report any suspected side effects to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or via the Yellow Card app.
Drug interactions with Sertraline 100mg
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Above all, do not combine sertraline with MAOIs (such as phenelzine, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine) or the reversible MAOI moclobemide. In particular, this combination can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome. Additionally, at least 14 days should pass between stopping an MAOI and starting sertraline. Meanwhile, at least 14 days should pass between stopping sertraline and starting an MAOI. Furthermore, linezolid (an antibiotic) and methylene blue have MAOI-like properties and the same interaction concern applies.
Other serotonergic drugs
Meanwhile, several other medicines increase serotonin activity and can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with sertraline. In particular, this includes other SSRIs, SNRIs (venlafaxine, duloxetine), tricyclic antidepressants, tramadol, pethidine, triptans (migraine treatments), St John's wort, and recreational drugs like MDMA. Additionally, disclose all medicines including herbal remedies and any illicit drug use during consultation. As a result, safe prescribing depends on knowing what else you take.
NSAIDs and blood thinners
Additionally, sertraline can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs like apixaban), and antiplatelet drugs (clopidogrel). Meanwhile, if these combinations are needed, your prescriber may add a proton pump inhibitor for stomach protection. Furthermore, disclose any regular painkiller or blood thinner use during consultation.
Alcohol and recreational drugs
Alcohol is not recommended during sertraline treatment. In particular, it can worsen depression and increase sedation. Additionally, recreational drugs (particularly MDMA, cocaine, amphetamines) can interact with sertraline and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome or worsen mental health symptoms. Meanwhile, disclosing recreational drug use during consultation is important for safe treatment. Furthermore, this information is treated confidentially and shapes safe prescribing rather than affecting judgement.
Frequently asked questions about Sertraline 100mg for depression
How quickly does sertraline work?
Some early benefit (sleep, appetite, mild mood lift) may appear within 1 to 2 weeks. However, most patients notice meaningful improvement at 2 to 4 weeks, and full effect usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. Meanwhile, don't judge whether sertraline is working in the first 2 weeks.
Will sertraline change my personality?
Sertraline doesn't change core personality. In particular, it helps regulate the mood chemistry that depression disrupts. Meanwhile, many patients describe feeling more like themselves rather than different. Additionally, if you feel emotionally 'flattened' or numbed on sertraline, discuss this with your prescriber; sometimes dose or medicine changes can help.
Is sertraline addictive?
Sertraline is not addictive in the way that terms like 'addictive' are usually understood. In particular, it doesn't cause craving, tolerance, or drug-seeking behaviour. However, stopping suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms because your brain has adapted to its presence. Meanwhile, this is why gradual tapering under prescriber guidance is important when the time comes to stop.
How long will I need to take it?
For a first episode of depression, treatment usually continues for at least 6 to 9 months after symptoms improve. In particular, this reduces the risk of relapse. Meanwhile, for recurrent depression, longer-term treatment may be recommended. Additionally, decisions about duration are made with your prescriber based on your circumstances and treatment history.
Can I take sertraline while pregnant?
This is an individual decision that needs specialist input. In particular, untreated depression in pregnancy also carries risks. Meanwhile, sertraline is one of the more commonly used SSRIs in pregnancy where treatment is judged necessary. Additionally, discuss pregnancy or planning pregnancy with your prescriber to weigh the individual risks and benefits.
Can I take sertraline while breastfeeding?
Small amounts of sertraline pass into breast milk but it's generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. In particular, sertraline is often one of the preferred SSRIs during breastfeeding when antidepressant treatment is needed. Meanwhile, discuss with your prescriber to ensure the choice fits your individual situation.
Can I drink alcohol on sertraline?
Alcohol is not recommended during sertraline treatment. In particular, it can worsen depression, undermine treatment, and increase sedation. Meanwhile, occasional light drinking is unlikely to be dangerous but is generally advised against. Additionally, if alcohol use is difficult to reduce, discuss with your prescriber.
What if sertraline doesn't work for me?
Not everyone responds to sertraline, and this is common with antidepressants. Firstly, if you've had 4 to 6 weeks at a therapeutic dose without benefit, contact your prescriber. Meanwhile, options include increasing the dose, switching to a different antidepressant, adding a second medicine, or adding talking therapy. As a result, treatment resistance is a signal for review, not a reason to give up.
Can I take sertraline with other medicines?
Sertraline has fewer interactions than some SSRIs but still has several important ones. In particular, avoid combining with MAOIs, other SSRIs/SNRIs, tramadol, triptans, and St John's wort without prescriber guidance. Additionally, disclose all regular medicines during consultation including herbal remedies. Meanwhile, common medicines like paracetamol are generally safe with sertraline.
Will sertraline make me gain weight?
Weight changes on sertraline vary. In particular, some patients lose weight early (often from reduced appetite or nausea). Meanwhile, others gain weight over months of treatment. Additionally, the effect isn't predictable. Furthermore, if weight is a concern, mention it during consultation so your prescriber can factor it into the treatment plan.
Will it affect my sex life?
SSRIs including sertraline commonly cause sexual side effects like reduced libido, delayed orgasm, or (in men) delayed ejaculation. Meanwhile, these effects vary between individuals but are common enough that they should be discussed openly. Additionally, if sexual side effects are troublesome, your prescriber may adjust dose, timing, or medicine to help.
Can I stop taking sertraline suddenly?
No. Stopping suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms including flu-like feelings, dizziness, sensory disturbances, and mood changes. Instead, plan a gradual tapering with your prescriber over weeks or months. Meanwhile, this approach reduces the risk of discontinuation effects significantly.
Can I drive while taking sertraline?
Most patients can drive normally on sertraline. However, some experience drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, especially early in treatment or after a dose change. In particular, avoid driving until you know how sertraline affects you. Additionally, follow DVLA guidance if you experience side effects that affect driving safely.
Do I still need talking therapy if I'm on sertraline?
NICE recommends combined treatment (antidepressant plus talking therapy) for most people with moderate to severe depression. In particular, this combination often gives better outcomes than either alone. Meanwhile, NHS Talking Therapies can be accessed by self-referral in England. Additionally, private therapy is another route. As a result, sertraline is one part of care, not the whole thing.
Is sertraline safe for teenagers?
Sertraline is licensed for OCD in children aged 6 and above but is not routinely first-line for depression in under-18s. In particular, fluoxetine is usually the first SSRI considered for adolescent depression under specialist supervision. Meanwhile, all antidepressant use in under-25s requires closer monitoring for suicidal thoughts. As a result, adolescent depression is generally not managed through general online prescribing services.
What if I feel worse in the first few weeks?
Some worsening of anxiety or restlessness can occur in the first 1 to 2 weeks as your body adjusts. In particular, this usually settles. Meanwhile, if you notice suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, or unusual mood changes, contact your prescriber urgently and seek crisis support if needed. Additionally, don't stop sertraline without prescriber guidance; sudden stopping can cause its own problems.
Do I need blood tests while on sertraline?
Routine blood monitoring isn't required for most patients on sertraline. However, older adults or those on medicines that affect sodium may benefit from periodic sodium checks. Meanwhile, if you develop specific side effects, your prescriber may arrange targeted tests. As a result, discuss any monitoring needs at your consultation.
Can I take sertraline in the morning or should it be at night?
Either is fine. In particular, if sertraline makes you feel sleepy, evening dosing suits you. Meanwhile, if it causes insomnia, morning dosing usually helps. Additionally, consistency matters more than the specific time, so pick whichever fits your routine and stick with it.
Do I need a prescription from Courier Pharmacy?
Yes. Sertraline 100mg is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber must review your consultation. You can complete this at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
What if I need to be switched to a different antidepressant?
This is common and usually straightforward with prescriber guidance. In particular, switching between SSRIs is often done with a short overlap or brief washout. Meanwhile, switching to or from certain other antidepressants (especially MAOIs) needs a longer washout for safety. Additionally, never make the switch yourself; work with your prescriber to plan it safely.
If you're in crisis
Depression can be exhausting and, at times, dangerous. If you're struggling right now, please talk to someone. You don't have to work this out alone.
Samaritans: call 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
SHOUT: text SHOUT to 85258 for free crisis text support in the UK
NHS 111: call 111 and choose the mental health option
For immediate danger to life: call 999 or go to your nearest A&E
Additionally, NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT) offer free psychological therapy for depression and anxiety in England and can be accessed by self-referral. Furthermore, Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, and other charities provide information, peer support, and advocacy.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
Byline
Written by the Courier Pharmacy editorial team. Clinically reviewed by Shazlee Ahsan (GPhC 2046605), Superintendent Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber. Last reviewed: August 2026.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2022) Depression in adults: treatment and management. NICE guideline NG222. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng222
