Sertraline is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Sertraline belongs to a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which change the amount of a chemical in the brain to maintain mental stability.

This medication comes in a tablet and an oral solution form, and is usually taken by mouth once a day, with or without food.

Common side effects of sertraline include nausea, headache, and insomnia. This medication may cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how sertraline affects you.