Sertraline - Lustral

Depression (major depressive disorder), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social anxiety disorder.

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It increases serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reabsorption into nerve cells. More serotonin available between nerve cells means better mood regulation, less anxiety, and reduced compulsive thoughts. Effects typically begin within 2--4 weeks.

Adults and young people (over 6 for OCD) with depression, anxiety or related conditions. Not suitable if you're taking MAOIs or pimozide. Use with caution in bipolar disorder, epilepsy, liver or kidney impairment, and bleeding disorders.

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives tomorrow - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Sertraline from £20.99 per pack.

Common: nausea, headache, insomnia or drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, diarrhoea, sexual dysfunction (reduced libido, difficulty reaching orgasm). These often improve after the first 1-2 weeks. Uncommon: weight changes, sweating, tremor. Rare but serious: serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high temperature) - seek immediate help.

Do not take with or within 14 days of MAOIs (risk of serotonin syndrome). Use with caution in bipolar disorder (may trigger mania), epilepsy, bleeding disorders, and severe hepatic impairment.

Do not combine with MAOIs or other serotonergic drugs (triptans, tramadol, St John's Wort, other antidepressants) - risk of serotonin syndrome. NSAIDs and anticoagulants: increased bleeding risk. Fluoxetine and paroxetine inhibit CYP2D6 - can increase levels of tamoxifen, codeine effects reduced.

Discuss with your doctor - the decision depends on the severity of your condition. SSRIs in late pregnancy may cause temporary withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. Paroxetine specifically has a slightly higher risk of cardiac malformations - sertraline is generally preferred in pregnancy. Present in breast milk in small amounts.

Start at 50mg daily, usually in the morning. Allow 4--6 weeks for full effect. Early side effects (nausea, headache, sleep changes) often settle within the first week or two. Can affect sexual function. Don't stop suddenly after long-term use -- taper gradually with your doctor's guidance. If you feel worse or develop suicidal thoughts in the first few weeks, contact your doctor immediately.