Can You Overdose on Zoloft? Why You Should Be Careful About Taking More Than You Should

If you are taking Zoloft or planning to take this medication, maybe you are wondering whether it is possible to overdose on this drug. Can you overdose on Zoloft alone? What are the potential causes of a drug overdose?

Zoloft, also known by its generic name sertraline hydrochloride, is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) that works by boosting the feel-good hormone serotonin in the brain. Because of its benefits, it is often prescribed as a treatment for anxiety and depression. It is a popular antidepressant used to improve energy, mood, sleep, and appetite.

In this blog, we will discuss the answers to these common questions about Zoloft. We will also list down the possible scenarios that could lead to a drug overdose when using this antidepressant.

Is it possible to overdose on Zoloft?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Zoloft. While fatal overdose is rare, overdosing on the drug could still result in serious consequences such as heart problems, seizures, serotonin syndrome, fainting, inflammation of the pancreas, lethargy, nausea, and blood pressure irregularities. These health consequences can be detrimental to your health. It is then important to only take the prescribed dose of Zoloft and not take it longer than you should. This can greatly avoid drug overdose.

Potential Causes of Zoloft Overdose

What can potentially cause a Zoloft overdose? Different scenarios could lead to overdosing on this drug. Below are some examples of how it could lead to an overdose.

Ingesting a large dose

As mentioned above, it is important not to take more than the prescribed dosage of Zoloft. If you do so, then it can increase your risk of overdosing on the drug. It is important not to take more than one dose at a time.

Not knowing that Zoloft does not provide an instant effect

Zoloft is a drug that takes at least six weeks to take effect. It is unlike other anti-anxiety or depression drugs that provide an instant effect. Zoloft's efficacy takes weeks to manifest in a depressed individual. People who are taking Zoloft may not be aware of this and could inadvertently increase their dosage or combine it with other substances, thinking it would work better.

Confusing Zoloft with benzos

Some people are under the impression that Zoloft is a benzodiazepine like Xanax because it's a popular antidepressant and anxiety medication. This could lead to a misconception that Zoloft will deliver the same results. Using Zoloft recreationally thinking it is like Xanax could result in taking excessive doses and drug overdose.

Mixing it with other substances

Another risk that could lead to a fatal overdose is mixing Zoloft with alcohol and other drugs in trying to get high. This can send your system into shock, leading to seizures and other harmful effects.

Even if you have a legitimate prescription, you should never take this antidepressant with other drugs without first consulting your doctor. Taking two different types of medications together could alter the way each drug works, which could lead to an overdose in either one of the drugs.

Self-medication

Many people who are suffering from depression and anxiety are hesitant to get treatment. Some are embarrassed to speak to a therapist while others are worried about the expenses involved with seeking professional help. Because of this, some people try to self-medicate by getting drugs illegally and just taking the drug without a proper prescription.

An incorrect dose of Zoloft can be dangerous as it could cause harmful side effects. It can even lead to an overdose if you do not have the correct information on how to take the drug and how much to take. That's why it is of utmost importance to make sure that you consult a doctor before taking Zoloft or any other type of antidepressant.

What to do in case of an overdose?

If you suspect that you or someone you know has overdosed on Zoloft, it is important to act quickly and call for emergency medical assistance. It is very important to call for help especially if you suspect that other drugs or alcohol were also ingested. This is the best way to reduce the risk of fatal side effects.

If possible, have the prescription bottle available. This will help emergency responders know what drug/s was taken and how much drug was ingested.

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.

Contact Anaheim Lighthouse today.