Indications

Chear (Sertraline) is indicated for the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic disorder (PD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Pharmacology

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by potently and selectively blocking the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system (CNS). This increases the concentration of 5-HT in the synaptic clefts, which enhances its activity at postsynaptic receptor sites, leading to an improvement in depressive symptoms. The drug's long half-life allows for once-daily administration.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults:
  • MDD & OCD: Starting dose is 50 mg/day. Therapeutic range is 50-200 mg.
  • PD, PTSD, SAD: Starting dose is 25 mg/day. Therapeutic range is 50-200 mg.
• Pediatric Patients (6-12 years old):
  • OCD: Starting dose is 25 mg/day. Therapeutic range is 50-200 mg.
• PMDD:
  • Starting dose is 50 mg/day, either continuously (every day) or intermittently (starting 14 days before menstruation and continuing through menses).
  • Dosage can be increased to 150 mg/day for continuous dosing or up to 100 mg/day for intermittent dosing if there is no response. The recommended interval between dose changes is one week.

Interaction

• Highly Protein-Bound Drugs: Since Chear is tightly bound to plasma proteins, it may displace or be displaced by other highly protein-bound drugs like warfarin or digitoxin, which could lead to adverse effects.
• Other Drugs: It may also interact with Cimetidine, CNS active drugs (like Diazepam), hypoglycemic drugs, and Atenolol.

Contraindications

Sertraline is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to Sertraline or its excipients.
• Moderate to severe hepatic impairment.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, dry mouth, loss of appetite.
• Neurological effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, tingling in hands or feet.
• Other: Weight changes, excitement, sore throat.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: The safety of Sertraline during human pregnancy has not been established. It should only be used if the potential benefit outweighs the risk.
• Lactation: Sertraline is known to be excreted in breast milk. Discontinuation of breastfeeding should be considered if treatment is necessary.

Precautions & Warnings

• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver problems, kidney disease, seizures, heart problems, or any allergies.
• Alertness: It may cause dizziness or drowsiness; therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery.
• Elderly Patients: Use with caution, as they may be more sensitive to the drug's effects.
• MAOIs: Do not take Chear if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor within the last five weeks.
• Suicidal Ideation: There is a risk of suicidal thinking and behavioral changes, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is required.

Therapeutic Class

Chear belongs to the class of SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and related anti-depressant drugs.

Storage Conditions

Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children.