Definition

Noun: - A selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed as an antidepressant. It is the trade name for the drug sertraline.

Usage

• Zoloft is used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
• It functions by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
• The word is typically used in medical, pharmaceutical, and informal healthcare contexts.

Examples

• Her doctor prescribed Zoloft to help manage her anxiety.
• Zoloft is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.
• He experienced fewer side effects after switching to Zoloft.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on Zoloft": To be taking the medication Zoloft as part of a treatment plan.
  • She has been on Zoloft for six months and reports feeling much better.
• "Zoloft withdrawal": Refers to symptoms that may occur when stopping the medication, especially if done abruptly.
  • It's important to taper off Zoloft under a doctor's supervision to avoid withdrawal.

Variants and Related Words

• Sertraline (n): The generic, non-brand name for the drug Zoloft.
  • The pharmacy offered the generic sertraline, which is less expensive than the brand-name Zoloft.
• SSRI (n, acronym): Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. This is the class of drugs to which Zoloft belongs.
  • Common SSRIs include Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro.

Synonyms

• Antidepressant (n): A broader category of medications used to treat depression, which includes Zoloft.
• SSRI (n): The specific drug class; while not a perfect synonym, it is the category name.

Notes on Meaning

• Zoloft is a proper noun (a trademark) and is typically capitalized.
• It refers specifically to the brand-name product. The active ingredient itself is called sertraline.

Noun

1. a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Zoloft)