What Is Sertraline? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Sertraline is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States and the world. Sold under the brand name Zoloft, it belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It was FDA-approved on December 30, 1991, and has since become a first-line treatment for a broad range of psychiatric and anxiety conditions.

What Is Sertraline Used For?

The FDA has approved sertraline for the following conditions:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — for adults and adolescents. The first SSRI many patients try for depression.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) — for adults and children age 6 and older. One of the first-line OCD treatments.
• Panic Disorder — with or without agoraphobia.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — one of two SSRIs (along with paroxetine) FDA-approved for PTSD.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) — can be taken daily or only during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
• Social Anxiety Disorder — (social phobia).

Doctors may also prescribe sertraline off-label for:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Premature ejaculation
• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Hot flashes (especially in menopausal patients)

Brand Name vs. Generic: What's the Difference?

Sertraline is the generic name for the active ingredient. Zoloft is the original brand name, marketed in the U.S. by Pfizer (now under Viatris/Upjohn). The Zoloft patent expired in 2006, opening the market to generics. Today, most patients take generic sertraline — it is bioequivalent to Zoloft and typically costs a fraction of the brand price.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Sertraline is available in:

• Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
• Capsules: 150 mg, 200 mg (useful for patients who need higher doses without splitting pills)
• Oral solution: 20 mg/mL (60 mL bottle; must be diluted before taking; contains 12% alcohol)

How Is Sertraline Dosed?

Sertraline is taken once daily, with or without food. Taking it with food can reduce nausea. There's no significant difference in effectiveness between morning and evening dosing — choose whichever fits your routine best.

Typical dosing by condition:

• MDD and OCD: Start at 50 mg/day; maintenance 50–200 mg/day
• PMDD: 50 mg/day (continuous or luteal phase only); max 150 mg/day
• Pediatric OCD (6–12 years): Start at 25 mg/day; max 200 mg/day
• Maximum dose: 200 mg/day for all indications

How Long Until Sertraline Works?

Sertraline is not a fast-acting medication. Most patients begin to notice improvements in sleep, appetite, or energy within the first 1–2 weeks, but the full therapeutic effect on mood and anxiety typically takes 4–6 weeks of consistent use. For OCD, the full benefit may take 8–12 weeks or longer. Don't judge whether sertraline is working until you've given it sufficient time at the proper dose.

Is Sertraline a Controlled Substance?

No. Sertraline is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. It does not have abuse or dependence potential in the way that benzodiazepines or stimulants do. This means it can be prescribed with standard refills, can be called in over the phone, and can be prescribed via telehealth without an in-person evaluation requirement.

See also: How Does Sertraline Work? Mechanism of Action Explained in Plain English.

Also: Sertraline Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor.