What is the brand name for Sertraline?
The brand name for Sertraline is Zoloft.
PTCE Top 200 · #11
Sertraline
Zoloft
Sertraline is the generic name for the brand-name drug Zoloft. It is a ssri antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Sertraline ranks #11 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Sertraline |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Zoloft |
| Drug class | SSRI antidepressant |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, anxiety |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Sertraline used for?
SSRI for major depressive disorder and several anxiety‑related disorders (e.g., OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, social anxiety disorder) and for PMDD.
What drug class is Sertraline?
Sertraline is a SSRI antidepressant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Sertraline
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightInsomnia
- arrow_rightSexual dysfunction
- arrow_rightDry mouth
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors/linezolid/methylene blue (contraindicated) → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs (triptans, tramadol, St. John's wort) → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightNSAIDs/aspirin/anticoagulants ↑ bleeding risk
- arrow_rightPimozide (contraindicated) and other QT‑prolonging drugs: arrhythmia risk
Is Sertraline a controlled substance?
No. Sertraline is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults—monitor closely, especially at start or dose changes.
How to remember Sertraline (PTCE mnemonic)
ZO-LOFT 'LIFTS' serotonin — sertraline is an SSRI. 4-6 weeks to work; watch suicidality (boxed) and serotonin syndrome.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Sertraline is an SSRI. The high-yield safety point is serotonin syndrome when it's combined with other serotonergic drugs.
Sertraline FAQ
What is Sertraline used for?
Sertraline is used to treat depression, anxiety. SSRI for major depressive disorder and several anxiety‑related disorders (e.g., OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, social anxiety disorder) and for PMDD.
What drug class is Sertraline?
Sertraline is a SSRI antidepressant (CNS/Psych group).
Is Sertraline a controlled substance?
No. Sertraline is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Sertraline the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).