Sertraline side effects drowsiness
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Sertraline Side Effects: Focus on Drowsiness and Somnolence
Prevalence of Drowsiness and Somnolence with Sertraline
Drowsiness, also referred to as somnolence, is a commonly reported side effect of sertraline. In a cross-sectional study of patients taking sertraline, 59% reported experiencing somnolence, making it one of the most frequent side effects alongside others like fatigue and memory impairment. Other studies and case reports also list drowsiness as a recognized side effect of sertraline, along with symptoms such as nervousness, sweating, insomnia, and dizziness289.
Comparison with Other SSRIs and Antidepressants
When compared to other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antidepressants, sertraline generally has a favorable side effect profile. It tends to cause less drowsiness than older antidepressants like amitriptyline, which is known for its sedating effects710. However, drowsiness is still present and can be significant for some patients, especially at higher doses. In studies comparing sertraline to escitalopram, drowsiness was not highlighted as a more frequent side effect in sertraline users, but other side effects like nausea and insomnia were more common.
Drowsiness in Different Populations
Drowsiness as a side effect of sertraline has been observed in both adults and adolescents. In a study of adolescents treated for major depression, drowsiness and insomnia were among the most common adverse effects, though they were usually manageable. In older adults, sertraline caused subjective drowsiness, but to a lesser extent and shorter duration than amitriptyline.
Impact on Daily Function and Psychomotor Performance
Despite reports of drowsiness, studies have shown that sertraline does not significantly impair psychomotor performance in healthy volunteers or patients, even at higher doses567. In fact, some research suggests sertraline may have a slight alerting effect, which contrasts with the subjective reports of drowsiness. This means that while patients may feel drowsy, their ability to perform tasks requiring attention and coordination is not significantly affected.
Severity and Management of Drowsiness
Most cases of drowsiness associated with sertraline are mild to moderate and do not typically lead to discontinuation of the medication. The side effect is usually manageable, and patients are often able to continue treatment with adjustments as needed. In clinical practice, drowsiness is monitored, and dose timing or gradual titration may help reduce its impact149.
Conclusion
Drowsiness is a common but generally manageable side effect of sertraline, reported by a significant proportion of users. While it can be bothersome, it is usually less severe than with some older antidepressants and does not typically impair psychomotor function. Patients experiencing drowsiness should discuss it with their healthcare provider, as adjustments in dosing or timing may help alleviate this side effect. Overall, sertraline remains a widely used and well-tolerated antidepressant, with drowsiness being one of several possible but usually mild side effects.
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