Does Sertraline cause flashbacks? (3+ tips)

In this article, we will answer the question “Does Sertraline cause flashbacks?”. We will discuss what research suggests, factors that may influence the occurrence of flashbacks, and how to manage this side effect while taking Sertraline.

Does Sertraline cause flashbacks?

Sertraline may or may not cause flashbacks in individuals taking the medication. The occurrence of flashbacks is not commonly reported by individuals using Sertraline for their condition. However, each individual is different and has a different response to Sertraline. Sertraline can reduce the incidence of flashbacks related to traumatic events.

Sertraline (also known as Zoloft) is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The FDA approves it for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), panic disorder (PD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (1,2).

Some individuals may think this to be a side effect of Sertraline, but mostly it may be a symptom of the underlying depressive illness that Sertraline is treating. The cause of flashbacks may be due to PTSD, as past trauma may trigger such symptoms.

If you experience flashbacks while taking Sertraline you should immediately contact a healthcare professional and seek personalised guidance according to your condition.

What does research suggest?

A few research studies that have been published regarding the occurrence of flashbacks with the use of Sertraline have conflicting views. Some studies regard this as a side effect, while others consider this as a symptom of PTSD.

A research study on the psycho-pharmacotherapy of PTSD stated that Sertraline was very effective in individuals with PTSD, as it significantly reduced the occurrence of flashbacks of the trauma of the individual undergoing the treatment (3).

Another case study of a patient receiving Sertraline for her PTSD symptoms reported the worsening of flashbacks. She was prescribed Prazosin for the treatment of her symptoms and multiple daily doses of the medication resolved her flashbacks (4).

Another clinical study evaluated the use of Sertraline in PTSD and reported a decrease in the flashbacks of trauma in the majority of individuals being treated for PTSD. Sertraline was linked to improvement in mood and trauma therapy response (5).

What factors trigger the occurrence of flashbacks while on Sertraline?

The following factors can influence the occurrence of flashbacks in individuals taking Sertraline:

How to manage flashbacks while on Sertraline?

If you experience flashbacks while on Sertraline treatment, you can consider the following steps:

Consult your healthcare provider

The first and foremost thing you should do if you experience flashbacks while taking Sertraline is to communicate this problem to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will assess the situation at provide you with an appropriate management plan.

Be patient and persistent

Mostly, the flashbacks are a symptom of the disorder, rather than the side effect of a medication. You should be patient and persistent with your medication and wait a few weeks to see its effect.

Recognise the cause

You should feel any pattern in the occurrence of flashbacks and record it. This will help your doctor in recognising the underlying cause of your symptoms. If Sertraline is the cause, your doctor may suggest an alternative medication to help with your condition.

Medications like Paroxetine, Trazodone, Desvenlafaxine, Venlafaxine, or Duloxetine can also help manage symptoms of PTSD in individuals.

Coping mechanisms

Coping mechanisms can help reduce the frequency of flashbacks of any traumatic event while taking Sertraline. Some strategies are as follows:

• Prolonged exposure therapy- repeatedly talking about your trauma.
• Cognitive processing therapy- helps you change your negative thoughts so you can process the trauma better.
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)- shifting focus from your memories to something else, like eye movements.
• Taking control- talking to yourself that the trauma gas passed and this is just a flashback.
• Learning about triggers- try to learn your triggers so they can be avoided in the future.

Managing flashbacks and mental health with Sertraline

In my experience as a pharmacist, Sertraline is not directly associated with flashbacks. However, each individual is different and the response to Sertraline may vary from person to person. Flashbacks are normally due to PTSD, a condition for which Sertraline is the drug of choice.

Although flashbacks may not be a commonly reported side effect of Sertraline, if you do experience any such symptom while taking Sertraline, make sure to contact your healthcare provider for assistance. Do not stop taking Sertraline without the recommendation of your doctor.

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