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Is Zoloft Addictive?

Is Zoloft Addictive?

Zoloft, also known for its generic name, sertraline, is an antidepressant drug used to treat various conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, panic disorders, and anxiety. Sertraline is available in tablets or as an oral solution. Although the medication is deemed safe, there are risks involved that can cause serious health complications. The FDA has approved the use of the drug for disorders such as depression, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety, but Zoloft abuse is not as concerning as other drugs. But is Zoloft addictive?

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Can You Get Addicted to Zoloft?

Zoloft can be abused, leading to a physical dependency on the drug’s effects. Prescription pill addiction is extremely common. Nearly sixteen million people, including teens, abuse pills in America. Due to the severity of the conditions that sertraline is used to treat, psychological dependence occurs. Unlike most prescribed medications, Zoloft can be taken for months or years as it’s meant for long-time use.

If a person takes Zoloft every day and then misses a dose or chooses not to take the drug and then feels abnormal or unable to properly function, then a person has formed a dependency on the substance. However, there are not many reports to express if Zoloft produces intense cravings. Cravings are not a common side effect of the medication.

Before a person takes Zoloft, it’s important to be aware of the withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are likely to worsen if a person takes the medication with specific underlying conditions such as liver problems, bipolar disorder, or epilepsy. Zoloft withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Chills
  • Vertigo
  • Irritability
  • Headaches
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Lack of concentration
  • Recurring nightmares or vivid dreams

A person may experience concerning symptoms because, essentially, depressive episodes and severe anxiety rebound after being suppressed by the medication. Dialectical behavior therapy is an excellent option for a person with a specific mental health disorder since emotional regulation and skills to boost self-esteem are practiced. 

Can Zoloft Get You High?

Sertraline is addictive, especially since it’s used for long periods of time. People may form a dependency on the stimulating effects of the drug. If a person misuses the drug to experience a sensation of being high, they may be disappointed. Reports indicate that people will feel a boost of energy because depression symptoms are declining. The euphoric effect stems from a person with a mental health condition in which the medication is used to reduce or relieve a person from the symptoms.  

Other side effects from Zoloft include:

  • Fatigue
  • Tremors
  • Sweating
  • Headaches
  • Indigestion
  • Lack of libido
  • Stomach pain
  • Loss of appetite

You can snort Zoloft, which people will do to feel the calming effects the medication produces. Since Zoloft is addictive in the sense that people will depend on the medication to reduce their mental health condition symptoms, the medicine is meant to be taken with caution. Zoloft addiction is more likely to occur in someone who does not struggle with a mental health disorder but misuses the drug for other purposes.

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Addiction Treatment at Our Pompano Rehabilitation Center

If you or a loved one is struggling with a co-occurring disorder, Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano can help you get back on track. Our mental health program offers the resources and supervision patients need during the treatment and recovery process. We offer unique programs, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to an excellent relapse prevention program.

Speak to a specialist at Banyan Pompano by calling 888-280-4763 and asking about our intensive outpatient program to get started on the path to recovery today!

 

Related Readings:

Can Drug Abuse Cause Congestive Heart Failure?

How Do I Know if I Have a Drug Problem?

Best Books About Anxiety

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.