Does Sertraline cause mood swings? (1+ phases of concern)
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
This article answers the question, “Can Sertraline cause mood swings?”. To address this query comprehensively, we’ll explore the impact of Sertraline on mood throughout its use, including initial side effects, mood improvement, and the potential for mood changes during withdrawal.
Does Sertraline cause mood swings?
Yes, Sertraline can cause mood swings in some people, however, the incidence is low.
Sertraline is an antidepressant medication used to treat mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
While it’s intended to help stabilise mood over time, it’s possible to experience some fluctuations in mood when starting or discontinuing the medication.
What does research suggest?
Sertraline, an antidepressant medication, has shown promise in alleviating a range of mood disorders, including major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and social anxiety disorder. (1)
Extensive studies have demonstrated the efficacy of sertraline in addressing mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. (2)
The mechanism of sertraline involves elevating serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with improved mood, better sleep, enhanced appetite control, and increased energy levels. (1)
One study suggests that Sertraline is effective in improving mood and reducing irritability and anger expression after a few weeks of treatment. (3)
Some people may experience increased anxiety and mood swings during the initial weeks of treatment before experiencing any improvement. (4)
Another study indicates that by stopping sertraline abruptly, people may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, headaches, mood changes, and anxiety. (5)
When is it most likely to experience Sertraline-induced mood swings?
Sertraline-induced mood swings are most likely to occur during the start and at the end of therapy. It is important to note that not everyone using Sertraline will experience mood swings or other potential side effects.
Initiation of Sertraline treatment
This period is often called the “initiation phase” and typically lasts for the first few weeks of treatment, especially if your dose is too high.
During the initial phase, some people may experience mood swings, heightened anxiety, or other changes in mood as their body adjusts to increased serotonin levels.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that boosts mood, regulates anxiety and improves sleep. Sertraline works by increasing serotonin levels. As therapy progresses and the body becomes accustomed to Sertraline, these mood changes tend to subside.
After 4-6 weeks of consistent use, individuals start experiencing the full therapeutic benefits of Sertraline, including improved mood, sleep, and overall well-being.
Discontinuation of Sertraline treatment
While mood changes are more likely to occur at the beginning of therapy, they can also be experienced when discontinuing Sertraline abruptly. This phase is known as the “tapering-off” or “discontinuation phase.”
It is strongly advised to gradually taper off the dose of Sertraline to minimize potential side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms of Sertraline may include mood swings, dizziness, electric shock sensations (commonly known as “brain zaps”), sleep disturbances, and visual disturbances.
What to do if Sertraline causes mood swings?
If Sertraline is affecting your mood in a way that is concerning or uncomfortable, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Contact your healthcare provider: The first and most crucial step is to reach out to the healthcare provider who prescribed you Sertraline. Describe the specific mood changes you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. Your healthcare provider can assess your situation and recommend appropriate actions.
- Follow medical guidance: Based on your discussion with your healthcare provider, they may suggest various options. This could include adjusting the dosage of Sertraline, trying a different medication, or exploring additional forms of therapy or treatment.
- Don’t discontinue abruptly: If your healthcare provider decides to make changes to your medication, it’s essential to taper off Sertraline gradually. Abruptly stopping Sertraline can lead to withdrawal symptoms and may worsen your mood.
- Monitor your mood: Keep a journal to track your mood changes and any side effects you may be experiencing. This information can be valuable in discussions with your healthcare provider and in evaluating the effectiveness of any treatment adjustments.
- Seek support: If mood changes are affecting your well-being, consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can complement medication in managing mood disorders.
- Engage in self-care: Incorporate self-care practices into your daily routine. This can include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises.
Conclusion
Sertraline can lead to mood swings, notably during the initial phase and when discontinuing the medication. Despite this, it is generally considered safe and effective for improving mood.
If you are experiencing Sertraline-induced mood swings impacting your daily life, it’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Open communication with your doctor is crucial in addressing these effects and finding the right approach to manage your mood effectively.
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