Does Sertraline cause brain fog? (3+ tips to manage)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss brain fog associated with Sertraline – a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). We will also discuss some research studies and what you should do if these side effects occur.
Does Sertraline cause brain fog?
Sertraline may cause brain fog in some individuals. Although it is not considered a common adverse effect, antidepressants like Sertraline may trigger symptoms associated with brain fog.
However, there is no clear answer, as brain fog can be caused by various other factors. Nonetheless, some individuals have reported Sertraline-induced brain fog. Sertraline is one of the most common ( selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) associated with brain fog (1).
Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays a key role in mood stability and mental clarity. Sertraline may affect cognitive abilities by changing serotonin levels, which could lead to brain fog.
What does research suggest?
There is limited research on brain fog associated with Sertraline.
One study published in the Psychiatry Journal found that patients suffering from OCD or depression who were on SSRI therapy exhibited a gradual decrease in memory functions within the first 8 weeks of initiation of drug treatment. Furthermore, follow-up studies showed the persistence of memory loss (2).
A comprehensive literature search discovered that about 60% of the patients experienced at least one side effect associated with Sertraline, with types of adverse effects usually including, dizziness, headache, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, nausea, and dry mouth (3).
Common symptoms of Sertraline-induced brain fog
If you are taking Sertraline (Zoloft), and you’re experiencing brain fog, you may have the following symptoms:
- Anxious thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Lingering sadness
- Difficulty in completing the task (4).
What are the factors contributing to Sertraline-induced brain fog?
Sertraline-induced brain fog can be influenced by several factors, primarily patient-specific details. Each individual can react differently to medications, including Sertraline, and this can result in symptoms of brain fog, such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and anxiousness (3).
Sertraline may interact with other medications, including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics. These drug interactions can increase the risks of side effects. Additionally, individuals with underlying health conditions, such as thyroid problems, sleep disorders, or chronic pain may experience brain while taking Sertraline. Older individuals are more likely to experience brain fog (2).
It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for guidance on dose adjustments or switching antidepressants.
What to do if Sertraline causes brain fog?
If Sertraline is causing brain fog, there are a few things you can consider:
Consult your doctor
Share your concerns and symptoms with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage, switch you to a different medication, or recommend other strategies to reduce your symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of Sertraline to see if the brain fog is the result of the medication. Sometimes, low or high doses can mitigate side effects.
Alternative medications
If Sertraline consistently causes brain fog, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider, there are several alternative medications that you may want to consider. Some of these medications include:
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and may be more effective in treating depression and less likely to cause brain fog, such as Venlafaxine (Effexor) (3, 5).
- Other Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by regulating the serotonin levels in the body, such as Citalopram (Celexa).
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), such as Mirtazapine (Remeron) (6).
- Norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), which works by increasing the norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain, such as Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (6).
It is essential to seek guidance from your healthcare provider if you are experiencing brain fog as a side effect of taking Sertraline.
Healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risks of symptoms of brain fog that some individuals may experience while taking Sertraline. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can be beneficial in reducing adverse effects associated with Sertraline
It is essential to inform your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any symptoms of brain fog while taking Sertraline (Zoloft). They can suggest different strategies to manage the side effects associated with the medication.
Conclusion
To summarize, brain fog can be caused by various factors, including underlying medical conditions. Though Sertraline may induce brain fog in some individuals, there is limited research on this association. We have discussed the factors contributing to brain fog caused by Sertraline, as well as management strategies.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Singh HK, Saadabadi A. Sertraline. [Updated 2023 Feb 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689/
2.-
Sayyah M, Eslami K, AlaiShehni S, Kouti L. Cognitive Function before and during Treatment with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in Patients with Depression or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Psychiatry J. 2016;2016:5480391. doi: 10.1155/2016/5480391. Epub 2016 Aug 15. PMID: 27597949; PMCID: PMC5002481.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5002481/
3.-
Sanchez C, Reines EH, Montgomery SA. A comparative review of escitalopram, paroxetine, and sertraline: Are they all alike? Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2014 Jul;29(4):185-96. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0000000000000023. PMID: 24424469; PMCID: PMC4047306.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4047306/
4.-
Meijer WE, Heerdink ER, van Eijk JT, Leufkens HG. Adverse events in users of sertraline: results from an observational study in psychiatric practice in The Netherlands. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2002 Dec;11(8):655-62. doi: 10.1002/pds.752. PMID: 12512241.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12512241/
5.-
Braund, T.A., Tillman, G., Palmer, D.M. et al. Antidepressant side effects and their impact on treatment outcome in people with major depressive disorder: an iSPOT-D report. Transl Psychiatry 11, 417 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-021-01533-1https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-021-01533-1
6.-
Cipriani A, La Ferla T, Furukawa TA, Signoretti A, Nakagawa A, Churchill R, McGuire H, Barbui C. Sertraline versus other antidepressive agents for depression. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Jan 20;(1):CD006117. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD006117. Update in: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010;(4):CD006117. PMID: 20091586.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20091586/
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