Does Sertraline stop you from overthinking? (3+benefits)
By
Dr Kirti Hira PhD
| Reviewed by
Ivan Kahwa
The contents of this article are fact-based except otherwise stated within the article.
Author bio
Dr Kirti Hira is a medical writer with expertise in Pharmacology and conducting systematic literature reviews (SLR). She writes and reviews content on pharmaceutical drugs.
Dr Kirti Hira’s Highlights:
- Associate consultant at IQVIA, India
- PhD in Pharmacy with a focus on the Discovery of Pro-inflammatory cytokine inhibitors from bacterial strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
- Master’s in Pharmacology with a focus on the development of a new acute pancreatitis model at the NIPER, Mohali, India
Professional Experience:
Dr Kirti Hira joined IQVIA, India as soon as she completed her doctoral degree.
Dr Kirti Hira was involved in performing a systematic literature search and gap analysis to support the development of a clinical evaluation report (CER) and performance evaluation report (PER) as per EU MDR (European Medical Device Regulations) and/or EU IVDR (European In-Vitro Device Regulations).
In addition to this, she has also supported the development of a literature search strategy, reviewed and appraised the literature critically, and prepared systematic literature review (SLR) reports to identify the potential risks, safety trends, and off-label uses to ensure that the medical device safety profile is aligned with safety and marketing claims.
Dr Kirti Hira has contributed to screening, analyzing, and reviewing the published literature and clinical investigation results to evaluate the safety and performance of medical devices and pharmaceutical drugs.
Education:
- 2014 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (DIPSAR), New Delhi, India
- 2016 Master of Science, Pharmacology at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali, India
- 2021 PhD in Pharmacy at BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
The main Publications of Dr Kirti Hira are:
Articles:
- Hira, K., Sharma, P., Mahale, A., Kulkarni, O. P., & Begum, A. S. (2022). Cyclo (Val-Pro) and Cyclo (Leu-Hydroxy-Pro) from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) alleviates acute and chronic renal injury under in vitro and in vivo models (Ischemic reperfusion and unilateral ureter obstruction). International Immunopharmacology, 103, 108494.
- Hira, K., Shaik, A., Kumar, S., & Ahil, S. B. (2017). Pseudomonas Potential Source for Drug Lead Discovery. Current Trends in Biomedical Engineering & Biosciences, 5(5), 108-111.
- Ahil, S. B., Hira, K., Shaik, A. B., Pal, P. P., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). L-Proline-based-cyclic dipeptides from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and alleviates crystal-induced renal injury in mice. International Immunopharmacology, 73, 395-404.
- Kumar, S. S., Hira, K., Begum Ahil, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2020). New synthetic coumarinolignans as attenuators of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced sepsis and carrageenan-induced paw oedema models. Inflammopharmacology, 28, 1365-1373.
- Begum, S. A., Hira, K., Pal, P. P., Nessa, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Danaraj, J., … & Fujimoto, Y. (2021). Halodule pinifolia (Seagrass) attenuated lipopolysaccharide-, carrageenan-, and crystal-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines: mechanism and chemistry. Inflammopharmacology, 29, 253-267.
- Kumar, S. S., Begum, A. S., Hira, K., Niazi, S., Kumar, B. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). Structure-based design and synthesis of new 4-methyl coumarin-based lignans as pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) inhibitors. Bioorganic Chemistry, 89, 102991.
- Begum, A. S., Kumar, S. S., Gottapu, S., & Hira, K. (2018). O-Glucoside of natural cleomiscosin-A: An attenuator of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Phytochemistry Letters, 26, 83-87.
- Sanjana, P., Kirti, H., & Begum, A. S. (2016). Medical devices and their approval procedure in India. International Journal of Drug Regulatory Affairs, 4(3), 19-29.
Book Chapter:
- Hira, K., & Sajeli Begum, A. (2021). Methods for evaluation of TNF-α inhibition effect. The TNF Superfamily: Methods and Protocols, 271-279.
Conference papers:
- Cyclo (Val-Pro) attenuates renal injury by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice renal ischemic model. Cytokines 2019- International Cytokines and Interferon Society, Vienna, Austria. Oct 20-23,2019.
- Natural Diketopiperazines as TNF-α and IL-6 inhibitors. Pharmacology 2018 British Pharmacological Society, London, UK. Dec 18 – 20, 2018.
- HDAC5/KLF2 axis regulates NLRP3-mediated renal inflammation and fibrosis associated with nephrocalcinosis-related chronic kidney disease. Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 35(Supplement_3), 2020
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha inhibitory activity of H.pinifolia. 24th ISCB International Conference, Manipal University, India. 11-13th Jan 2018.
- Bioactive cyclic dipeptides of microbial origin in discovery of cytokine inhibitors. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 888.
- MTT assay-guided isolation of a cytotoxic lead from Hedyotic umbellate and its mechanism of action against non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 891.
- Screening of phyto-compounds to identify cytotoxic lead molecules against A549, MDA- MB and HT-29 cell lines and their isolation methods. 68th Indian Pharmaceutical Congress, 2016, Dec 16-18, Visakhapatnam.
You can view Dr Kirti’s work below and links to her professional profiles.
Research Gate:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kirti-Hira
LinkedIn:https://in.linkedin.com/pub/kirti-hira/a3/975/549
Google Scholar:https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hlbrGn4AAAAJ&hl=en
Reviewer 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 whether Sertraline stops you from overthinking. We will also discuss how overthinking is connected to depression and how Sertraline can help you with that.
Does Sertraline stop you from overthinking?
Yes, Sertraline can stop you from overthinking. Anxiety, panic episodes, and overthinking are common symptoms of mental health conditions treated by Sertraline and this antidepressant can help manage these symptoms.
However, the time taken by Sertraline to help you stop overthinking and alleviate overall depression symptoms can vary from person to person.
Some people may take weeks to observe a noticeable change, while some may begin to feel different relatively earlier. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor to receive the best possible treatment to manage them.
What does research suggest?
Research studies have indicated that Sertraline is a good choice of antidepressant for managing symptoms of depression, including overthinking, hopelessness, persistent sadness, and suicidal thoughts (1).
Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that works by increasing serotonergic activity in the brain. Serotonin is an excitatory neurotransmitter and its deficiency is one of the main factors leading to depression (2).
However, research indicates that Sertraline may not help you with these symptoms right away. One research study showed that Sertraline did not improve depression symptoms adequately after 6 weeks of treatment (3).
The antidepressant can take up to 12 weeks for some people to notice a reduction in these symptoms.
What are the benefits of Sertraline for people who overthink?
As stated earlier, Sertraline can help people who overthink by managing depression. Some important benefits include (4):
- Sertraline can help individuals to calm their racing thoughts and reduce excessive worrying. This leads to a more peaceful state of mind.
- People on Sertraline often report reduced anxiety about what others may think of them. This can lead to greater self-confidence and decreased social anxiety.
- This antidepressant can help individuals see the brighter side of life. They become more capable of focusing on positive aspects rather than dwelling on negatives.
- With reduced anxiety and overthinking, individuals may find it easier to stay motivated and pursue their goals.
- Sertraline can help people concentrate better and avoid getting stuck in a cycle of unproductive thoughts.
What to do if Sertraline fails to help your overthinking?
If Sertraline fails to help your overthinking after taking the antidepressant for 8-12 weeks, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider. Sertraline is generally a well-tolerated antidepressant, but it may work well for everyone.
If Sertraline fails to help your symptoms, and you constantly find yourself depressed and overthinking despite taking the medications for several weeks, it indicates that Sertraline is not the right choice of medication for you. In such a case, you should seek medical advice.
Do not try to change your dosage or frequency on your own. It is also important to make sure you do not stop taking Sertraline abruptly thinking it doesn’t work.
It may not have helped your symptoms much, but your body won’t be able to accept sudden discontinuation without causing withdrawal symptoms. To prevent these symptoms, you have to gradually taper the antidepressant off. This should only be done under your doctor’s supervision.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed whether Sertraline helps with overthinking. We have also discussed the possible mechanism through which Sertraline can alleviate depression symptoms and some benefits of this antidepressant on your thought processes.
References
- McRae AL, Brady KT. Review of sertraline and its clinical applications in psychiatric disorders. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2001 May;2(5):883-92. doi: 10.1517/14656566.2.5.883. PMID: 11336629. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11336629/
- Singh HK, Saadabadi A. Sertraline. 2023 Feb 13. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31613469. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547689
- Lewis G, Duffy L, Ades A, Amos R, Araya R, Brabyn S, Button KS, Churchill R, Derrick C, Dowrick C, Gilbody S, Fawsitt C, Hollingworth W, Jones V, Kendrick T, Kessler D, Kounali D, Khan N, Lanham P, Pervin J, Peters TJ, Riozzie D, Salaminios G, Thomas L, Welton NJ, Wiles N, Woodhouse R, Lewis G. The clinical effectiveness of sertraline in primary care and the role of depression severity and duration (PANDA): a pragmatic, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial. Lancet Psychiatry. 2019 Nov;6(11):903-914. doi: 10.1016/S2215-0366(19)30366-9. Epub 2019 Sep 19. PMID: 31543474; PMCID: PMC7029306. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31543474/
- 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
Was this helpful?
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
