Zoloft and Acne

Sertaline, better known as Zoloft, is an anti depressant drug which has been around for at least a decade. It is the most widely prescribed antidepressant in North America. It is widely used to treat depression, post traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, panic disorder, severe anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder. Because of the risk of suicidal tendencies in young children, the drug is not approved for use in minors.

The drug has been prescribed to millions of individuals all over the world and numerous clinical trials have shown it to be a safe drug. However, the drug does have a few side effects which are minor in nature in nature.

Side effects

Sertaline can have adverse effects which include:

- sleep disorder (both lack of sleep and excessive sleep)

- bloating and constipation

- tremors, confusion, dizziness

- lack of sexual desire/energy

- nausea/vomiting

- grinding of teeth

- mild depersonalization

Disorders of Skin: In some individuals, Zoloft produces skin problems which include:

- itching which may vary in intensity

- acne on the face and head

- uritcaria (hives)

- hair loss

- dry skin

- red rash

- reaction to sunlight (photosensitivity reaction)

- dermatitis (itchy and dry skin)

- bullous eruption (pimple like eruption on skin)

- hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)

- skin discoloration

It is estimated that these skin reactions are very rare occurrences but the exact numbers are not known as there is no known data base. The majority of the skin problems are temporary in nature and resolve in 3-6 months after stopping the drug. It is highly recommended that when skin problems do occur when Zoloft is started, the individual should request to see his/her psychiatrist and discuss the issue. Today, a number of other excellent anti depressant drugs are available which can be prescribed instead of Zoloft. For the severe skin reactions which occur when on Zoloft, a visit to the dermatologist is highly recommended. The problem may or may not be related to Zoloft, but in any case, appropriate treatment can be started.