Can Zoloft Cause Nausea?

Posted on Fri, 8 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 8 Sep 2017 Answered on

Tue, 3 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I am taking zoloft day 9 and feel nauseous and loss of appetite which I guess is also due to anxiety and depression is this a side effect of zoloft!

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (17 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

Nausea can sometimes be a side effect of Zoloft -- but you are correct, it can also be a primary symptom of anxiety and depression. The good news is that if this is caused by the Zoloft, it should disappear within an additional week or so. I would continue with this medication for now, as it is very likely to help you. You can try Maalox for nausea in the meantime.

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In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (16 hours later)

I am also experiencing diarrhea is this common when starting zoloft? Thank you!

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Followup

Detailed Answer:
Yes, this is also a common side effect when starting Zoloft and should wear off within 2 weeks or so.

Please rate and close your answer when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng