Zoloft is an antidepressant medication containing sertraline, which is not classified as a controlled substance. This means that it is unlikely to cause abuse, misuse, or addiction and can be safely used to treat a range of mental health conditions.
- Zoloft (sertraline) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a class of antidepressant medications.
- Zoloft is not a controlled substance.
- Zoloft can be safely used as a long-term treatment if it is taken as prescribed.
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Is Zoloft a controlled substance?
Zoloft is not a controlled substance as it has recognized medical uses and little risk of abuse, addiction, or harm. Controlled substances are regulated as they have the potential for abuse and addiction, which may result in limited refills or treatment only being prescribed for the short term. [2]
Zoloft (sertraline) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a class of antidepressants. It is approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder (PD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). [1]
Antidepressants include SSRIs, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and atypical antidepressants. None of these classes of antidepressant medications contain controlled substances, as these medications do not carry a risk of addiction or misuse potential. [3]
Esketamine, a nasal spray that is approved to treat depression, is a Schedule III controlled substance. It must be administered in a certified facility by a healthcare provider and cannot be taken home for self-administration, as there is potential for misuse and abuse. [4]
Risk for misuse and addiction
Zoloft is unlikely to be misused or to cause the development of addiction. Although Zoloft impacts mood, it does not create a sense of euphoria or ‘high’ that is commonly seen with addictive substances. Because of this, people taking Zoloft are unlikely to experience cravings that typically precede the behaviors and consequences of physical and psychological addiction. [1][5]
Can Zoloft be misused?
Zoloft is unlikely to be misused, as it does not create a ‘high’ and, therefore, is not considered a drug of abuse. However, Zoloft might be misused by taking higher or more frequent doses than prescribed or alongside other substances. For example, there are reports of Zoloft and other SSRIs being used alongside MDMA to enhance its euphoric effects and reduce its adverse effects. [5]
Additionally, there may be a risk of misuse in people ending Zoloft treatment. The occurrence of severe discontinuation symptoms might cause Zoloft misuse in an attempt to reduce unpleasant effects. However, when Zoloft treatment is stopped, it is common for the prescribing doctor to advise about safe tapering and monitor the individual. [1]
Can you develop a dependence on Zoloft?
That being said, prolonged Zoloft use can result in the development of physical dependence. Over time, the brain adapts to the effects of the medication and requires its continued use for normal functioning. Zoloft increases the level of serotonin in the brain, which means that if the medication is stopped, the brain experiences a sudden drop in serotonin. [6]
This can cause discontinuation syndrome, which is a set of physical and psychological symptoms caused by the stoppage or reduction of Zoloft. Symptoms of discontinuation syndrome (sometimes referred to as withdrawal symptoms) can include: [1][6]
- Tiredness
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Vivid dreams
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Low mood
- Suicidal ideation
- Mania
- Sensory disturbances, including ‘brain zaps’ which feel like electric-shock sensations
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and are likely to be worse if the medication is stopped abruptly after prolonged use. Typically, symptoms will emerge within the first few days of stopping the medication and can last several weeks. [6]
Dependence vs. Addiction
Although withdrawal symptoms can be a sign of addiction, Zoloft dependence and discontinuation syndrome differ from addiction. Physical dependence can cause discontinuation syndrome, while addiction causes harmful behaviors and consequences, including:
- Cravings and drug-seeking behaviors
- Increasing the dosage or frequency of use
- Impairments in social, professional, or personal functioning due to use
Prescription and safe use guidelines
Zoloft can only be obtained through a prescription. Because Zoloft is not a controlled substance, there are no restrictions on prescription refills. It can be used as a long-term treatment to manage depression or other mental health conditions. [1]
Typically, the prescribing doctor will conduct regular reviews to monitor the efficacy of Zoloft treatment and manage any issues with treatment. Zoloft should be taken exactly as prescribed to help prevent adverse effects. New treatment will be gradually increased to find the therapeutic dose, while discontinuing treatments will be gradually reduced to help prevent discontinuation syndrome.
For safe use, never take more or less Zoloft than is prescribed or stop taking the medication suddenly or without professional advice. Also, never give your prescription to someone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
