Does Sertraline cause skin-picking? (3+ recommendations)

In this article, we will answer the question, “Does Sertraline cause skin-picking?”. We will discuss what research has to say in this regard and some recommendations regarding skin-picking while taking Sertraline.

Does Sertraline cause skin-picking?

Sertraline may or may not cause skin-picking. This side effect is not commonly reported by Sertraline users, however, some individuals may experience skin-picking as a side effect of Sertraline treatment. Some individuals have benefited from Sertraline treatment for the skin-picking disorder.

Sertraline (also known as Zoloft), is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and is approved by the FDA for the treatment of many depressive disorders (1).

If you are taking Sertraline, and notice any unusual changes in your behaviour, you should contact your healthcare provider and seek medical advice for your condition.

Some approved uses of Sertraline include the management and treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and panic disorder (PD) (1).

Skin-picking disorder (also known as excoriation disorder or dermatillomania) is a chronic condition in which an individual repeatedly picks at their skin resulting in tissue damage and swollen or broken skin. This disorder normally occurs in individuals with OCD (2).

What is the connection between Sertraline and skin-picking?

While Sertraline is not typically associated with the occurrence of skin-picking behaviours, it can be prescribed as a treatment option for individuals who have disorders that lead to skin-picking. For example, Sertraline is approved for the management of OCD, which can also cause skin-picking in individuals with the disorder.

A few possible mechanisms that have been proposed are that Sertraline can cause dermatological side effects like rashes, eczema, and acne, so skin-picking may also be a pharmacological side effect of the medication. Another mechanism is that this behaviour can be due to the occurrence of psychodynamic displacement behaviour. One last mechanism is that the skin-picking may be a serotonin-related effect (3).

However, no definite conclusion has been drawn regarding the mechanism behind Sertraline-related skin-picking behaviours. The same effect has been seen in bupropion, without any direct cause. The exact mechanism by which these medications cause this behaviour is yet to be understood and requires much more research and clinical evidence.

Sometimes other side effects of Sertraline like anxiety, agitation, and restlessness may exacerbate skin-picking tendencies in individuals. It is crucial to seek medical attention and keep open communication with your healthcare provider regarding changes in your behaviour. 

What does research suggest?

Research and studies on Sertraline’s role in skin-picking have varied conclusions. Some studies report cases where Sertraline resolved skin-picking in individuals suffering from the disorder, whereas a few cases in which such behaviour was aggravated have also been reported.

A research study assessing the emergence of skin-picking behaviours in individuals after being given SSRIs for OCD reports a few cases in which the skin-picking behaviour was aggravated after treatment (3).

Another research study evaluating the treatment options for skin-picking disorder reported that SSRIs are very beneficial in the pharmacological management of this disorder. Sertraline has shown a 68% positive response in individuals being treated with this medication for skin-picking (4).

Another clinical study examining the use of Sertraline in excoriation disorders was published. This study assessed the effect of Sertraline on 31 patients with skin-picking disorder. Sertraline proved to be effective in the management of this behaviour (5).

Results from research studies are divided into both positive and negative aspects of Sertraline and its effect on skin-picking behaviour in individuals. More research is needed to form a conclusion regarding Sertraline and its connection with skin-picking.

How to manage skin-picking while on Sertraline?

Some recommendations to help manage skin-picking while taking Sertraline are described below.

Understanding Sertraline’s connection to skin-picking

In my experience as a pharmacist, Sertraline may cause skin-picking in some individuals. However, this behaviour may not be a direct side effect of Sertraline. It may be due to the disorder that Sertraline is treating. In fact, Sertraline has been found to improve symptoms of skin-picking in some individuals.

If you experience skin-picking while taking Sertraline, it is best to consult your healthcare provider and communicate about your condition. Your healthcare provider will assess your situation, diagnose the underlying cause of your behaviour and suggest appropriate treatment.

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