The unknown about the contraindications of psychotropic drugs is usually a reason for frequent consultation by both patients and those close to them. In this sense, there are doubts about the type of body and mental relaxation that some medications provide. More specifically, sertraline is one of the most popular antidepressants in the world. This psychotropic drug is used to treat various mental pathologies, such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder or post-traumatic stress, among others. Although it usually provides good results over time due to its positive effects, there are some consequences that can become visible during the beginning.
Does sertraline make you sleepy? In this Psychology-Online article we will provide you with information and answer all your questions in this regard.
Is it normal to feel sleepy when taking sertraline?
The presence of episodes of drowsiness is one of the most common side effects that may arise at the beginning of psychiatric treatment with . This is because, in general, the body requires an initial period of adaptation to assimilate the changes that occur in the central nervous system.
However, it is important to keep in mind that sleep is not the only adverse effect that this psychotropic drug can cause. Below we show you some contraindications that may arise in the first days when you start taking sertraline:
- Insomnia.
- Allergic skin reactions.
- Diarrhea.
- Vomiting.
- Excessive sweating.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Dry mouth.
- Headache.
- Dizziness.
- Fatigue.
In the event that these side effects worsen and become serious health problems, it is recommended to go to a health center to be treated by an interdisciplinary team of professionals. In this way, the symptoms will be addressed to determine the best solution to these conditions. On the other hand, self-medication is discouraged and sertraline can only be indicated in patients who meet a series of specific medical requirements.
Why does sertraline make you sleepy?
This medication causes drowsiness due to certain underlying causes that affect the regulation of the central nervous system. Next, we will explain why sertraline makes you sleepy:
Ingested dose
In some cases, it has been shown that intake of high doses Sertraline produces drowsiness that can vary in intensity and duration. However, its adjustment allows the body to get used to the effect of the medication.
For this reason, each person has a specific requirement that varies depending on age, sex, genetic background, pre-existing diseases, life history and socioeconomic conditions, among other factors.
Increased serotonin
sertraline usually increases hormonal levels in it . In this sense, one of the chemical substances that has the greatest brain activity is serotonin, which influences sleep patterns. If some values are altered, prolonged moments of drowsiness may occur.
Alterations in sleep phases
On some occasions, this psychotropic drug affects the regulation of the REM phase of sleep. In these cases, the action of sertraline can prolong certain periods and increase sleep. In this article you will find more information about it.
Interference with other medications
Many people must take other medications to treat various problems, whether psychological or medical. Depending on the effects that each medication causes in the body, it is possible that some have a negative impact on the activation of the nervous system.
In these cases, another drug may cause excessive drowsiness or muscle relaxation. Combine both medications It can generate an increase in melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles.
Should I be worried if I get sleepy when taking sertraline?
Generally, you should not worry if you feel sleepy at first when taking sertraline, as It is a normal side effect in the weeks following the start of taking this medication.
However, It is important to pay attention to the manifestations physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms that emerge after a few months from the start of treatment. Drowsiness usually decreases progressively as the human body gets used to the neuronal modifications that occur in the cerebral cortex.
In the event that drowsiness causes difficulties in carrying out activities of daily living and other more serious problems, it is recommended talk to a mental health professional and follow up with a clinical doctor at all times, since sleep can be an alarming factor. If you have more questions about this medication you can consult the article
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- Chávez-León, E., Ontiveros Uribe, MP, Serrano Gómez, C. (2008). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. Mental Health Magazine, 31 (4), 307-319.
- Rodrigo, MD, Guillén, J., Quero, J., Perena, MJ, Aspiroz, A., Olagorta, S. (2004). Sertraline: Efficacy and tolerability as an adjuvant antidepressant treatment in patients with chronic pain. Magazine of the Spanish Pain Society, 11 (2), 87-93.