Does Sertraline make you lazy? (3+ factors)
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In this article, we will answer the question, “Does Sertraline make you lazy?”. We will discuss what research studies suggest on this side effect, some possible factors that may influence the level of motivation in different individuals taking Sertraline, and some coping mechanisms to combat laziness while on Sertraline.
Does Sertraline make you lazy?
Yes, Sertraline may make you lazy and less energetic. Some individuals experience fatigue, lethargy, decreased energy, and laziness while taking Sertraline. Remember that not all individuals react in the same manner to any medication so this side effect may vary from person to person.
In addition, Sertraline can also increase motivation and energy levels in some individuals. This effect of Sertraline depends on how the body of the individual receiving Sertraline, responds to the medication.
Sertraline (also known as Zoloft), is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) approved by the FDA for the treatment of many depressive disorders like major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder (PD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (1).
Sertraline has also been used ‘off-label’ for conditions like binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia nervosa, premature ejaculation, and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) (2).
Sertraline has been found to cause side effects like fatigue, exhaustion, and lethargy. Some individuals may also experience laziness with the usage of Sertraline. If you are experiencing laziness or any other unwanted side effects while taking Sertraline, you should consult your healthcare provider for medical guidance (2).
How does Sertraline make you lazy?
Sertraline is an antidepressant that works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the body. Serotonin may help improve symptoms of depression and elevate mood, however, excess serotonin may also lead to fatigue, exhaustion, and laziness.
Changes in serotonin can disturb your sleep cycle. If you do not get enough sleep, you may experience laziness, fatigue, and a lack of motivation. Remember that individuals react differently to different medications and not everyone taking Sertraline will experience these side effects.
What does research suggest?
A research study on the impact of Sertraline on psychomotor performance reported the use of Sertraline to be associated with fatigue and laziness. The possible cause behind this side effect was proposed to be the initial insomnia caused by Sertraline at the start of therapy (3).
Another case study found that Sertraline induced fatigue and neutropenia in a 36-year-old individual with end-stage renal disease when he was given this medication for the treatment of his depressive illness (4).
Studies show that even though Sertraline decreased depression, fatigue was observed, which led to laziness in individuals taking the medication.
What factors influence laziness while on Sertraline?
Decreased energy, tiredness, and laziness induced by Sertraline may be influenced by the following factors:
| Factors | Details |
| Patient characteristics | Every individual has different characteristics and in turn, responds differently to Sertraline treatment. Some individuals feel lazy while taking this medication while others may not. |
| Medication dosage | The dose of Sertraline can affect the occurrence of this side effect. Higher doses tend to cause greater side effects. |
| Time of medication | The time of taking the medication may be affecting the occurrence of fatigue and tiredness. Changing the timings may help improve your condition. |
| Interactions | Sometimes, Sertraline may interact with other medications and cause laziness and fatigue. |
| Adjustment duration | Your body may need some time to get used to Sertraline. Hence, the feeling of laziness, fatigue, and exhaustion may improve once your body adjusts to the medication. |
| Sleep problems | Sertraline can cause insomnia and lead to sleep disturbances. Improper sleep at night can cause excessive laziness during the day. |
| Underlying medical conditions |
What to do if Sertraline makes you lazy?
If you are taking Sertraline for your depressive illness and it makes you lazy or more tired than usual, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider. It is important to inform your doctor about your condition so a proper solution can be advised. Some steps that you should consider are as follows:
| Steps | Details |
| Consult your healthcare provider | You should consult your healthcare provider regarding your concerns and seek appropriate medical assistance. |
| Monitor symptoms | Keep track of and record your symptoms so that you can discuss any patterns you notice with your doctor. |
| Manage stress | Managing stress through stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help you manage your fatigue. |
| Lifestyle changes | Consider lifestyle and dietary changes like exercise, a healthy diet, and a proper sleep schedule. These changes may seem minor but can make a huge difference. |
| Be patient | Be patient with your medication. Laziness and fatigue may be a side effect that goes away after some time. So, you should wait a few weeks and let your body adjust to the medication. |
How long does it take for Sertraline-induced laziness to subside?
Sertraline-induced laziness and fatigue may subside after a few weeks. However, the duration may vary from person to person. Some individuals may start feeling better after a few weeks, while others may experience worsening of symptoms to the extent that they are prescribed an alternative to Sertraline for their condition.
In most cases, the laziness is a temporary side effect and goes away once the body adjusts to Sertraline. However, you should keep in mind that not all individuals may experience this side effect and every individual will respond differently to this medication.
What are some additional side effects of Sertraline?
Some additional side effects commonly observed with Sertraline usage are as follows (1,2):
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Lightheadedness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Syncope
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Somnolence
- Impotence
- Fatigue
- Rhinitis
- Tremors
- Dyspepsia
- Decreased appetite
- Hyperhidrosis
- Ejaculation failure
- Decreased libido
- Female sexual disorder
It is crucial to discuss your concerns with your doctor, regarding any side effects that you may be experiencing while taking Sertraline.
Understanding Sertraline-induced laziness
In my experience as a pharmacist, Sertraline-induced laziness is a side effect commonly experienced by individuals taking the drug. This side effect is typically seen at the start of treatment and subsides once the body adjusts to the medication.
There are a few tips and techniques that can be used to manage this side effect while taking Sertraline. However, if your symptoms do not resolve, or start to worsen with time, you should contact your healthcare provider for medical assistance.
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References
1.-
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION. ZOLOFT® (sertraline hydrochloride) tablets, for oral use. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/019839s74s86s87_20990s35s44s45lbl.pdf
2.-
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/
3.-
Paul MA, Gray G, Lange M. The impact of sertraline on psychomotor performance. DRDC-Toronto; 2002 Oct 1. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michel-Paul/publication/11065711_The_impact_of_sertraline_on_psychomotor_performance/links/5afd9929a6fdcc3a5a824e25/The-impact-of-sertraline-on-psychomotor-performance.pdf
4.-
Chien CW, Tai YM, Chen CY, Chu P, Tzeng NS. Sertraline-Induced Neutropenia and Fatigue in a Patient With End-Stage Renal Disease. American Journal of Therapeutics. 2022 Jan 1;29(1):e101-3. https://journals.lww.com/americantherapeutics/citation/2022/02000/sertraline_induced_neutropenia_and_fatigue_in_a.14.aspx
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