Millions of people taking the antidepressant sertraline are being warned about a rare but potentially life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome. The NHS has highlighted five key symptoms that require urgent medical attention.
Sertraline, prescribed for depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, and social anxiety, works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. While most side effects are mild and temporary, serotonin syndrome can occur when serotonin levels become too high, often due to dose changes or combining medications.
The five symptoms to watch for are a fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking, twitching muscles, and feeling confused or agitated. Anyone experiencing these should call NHS 111 immediately. Severe cases can lead to muscle rigidity, fever, seizures, and even death if untreated.
Common side effects include dizziness and drowsiness, with advice not to drive or operate machinery if affected. The NHS also warns against mixing sertraline with certain medicines, St John's wort, grapefruit juice, or alcohol, as these can interfere with the drug's effectiveness or increase risks.
