Sertraline

What is sertraline?

Sertraline (brand names: Zoloft®, Altruline®, Anilar®, Aremis®, Atenix®, Besitran®, Bicromil®, Gladem®, Insertec®, Irradial®, Lustral®, Novativ®, Sealdin®, Serad®, Sercerin®, Serlain®, Serta®, Tatig®, Tolrest®, Tresleen®) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used to treat a variety of behavior disorders, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and aggression. 

Its use in cats and dogs to treat behavior disorders is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label. 

How is sertraline given?

• Sertraline is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid solution.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• Sertraline may be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• To encourage eating, try hand-feeding or giving highly palatable food.
• Do not abruptly stop this medication; taper slowly before discontinuing to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

This medication can take a few weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Sertraline may cause the following side effects:

• Tiredness
• Vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite
• Anxiety, irritability
• Sleeplessness
• Shaking, tremors
• Itchy skin
• Panting

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving sertaline and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Seizures
• Coma
• Aggression
• Hyperactivity
• High body temperature
• Abnormal blood pressure
• Fast heart rate

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE sertaline in pets that:

• Are allergic to it or other SSRIs
• Are using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), flea/tick collars, or cisapride

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have epilepsy
• Have liver dysfunction
• Are aggressive
• Are geriatric, weak, or frail

USE WITH EXTREME CAUTION in pets that:

• Are pregnant or lactating (effects are currently unknown)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with sertraline, including:

• Buspirone
• Cimetidine
• Cyproheptadine
• Diazepam
• Flea collars
• Isoniazid
• L-thyroxine
• Metoclopramide
• Mexiletine
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Tramadol
• Tricyclic antidepressants

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• Your veterinarian may perform a baseline liver and electrocardiogram (ECG) test before starting medication, repeating as needed during therapy.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above, especially for persistent lack of appetite. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store sertraline?

• Store tablets at room temperature (approximately 77°F or 25°C) with short trips permitted in temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). 
• Protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.