Is Zoloft good for PTSD?

Yes, Zoloft is good for PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). Zoloft, generic name sertraline, is an antidepressant that is also used for anxiety disorders, such as PTSD. Zoloft is in the class of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), which also includes Prozac (fluoxetine), Paxil (paroxetine), Celexa (citalopram), and Lexapro (escitalopram). SSRIs are the mainstay of treatment for PTSD, while SNRIs (serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) such as Effexor (venlafaxine), and atypical antipsychotics such as Risperdal (risperidone) having preliminary evidence for effectiveness in PTSD. Benzodiazepines are not generally prescribed for PTSD, as there are hardly any research studies showing effectiveness for PTSD, and people with PTSD have a high comorbidity with alcohol abuse and substance abuse, which is a relative contraindication (a drug should not be used) for prescribing benzodiazepines.

Clinically, Zoloft can be effective at treating PTSD. Zoloft can address the anxiety, irritability, and hypervigilance that occur with PTSD. However, you still may have residual symptoms that Zoloft does not address, including sleep problems and nightmares. Thus, many people with PTSD are not on monotherapy…they may take several medications to treat the various symptoms associated with PTSD. For example, to address the sleep disturbance and nightmares, clinicians may prescribe an alpha 1 antagonist, such as prazosin (Minipress) and clonidine (Catapres). Another medication that can help with sleep and nightmares from PTSD is trazodone (Desyrel). Still, other residual symptoms may not be adequately covered by Zoloft, like extreme irritability and mood lability. For mood problems, adding an atypical antipsychotic such as Risperdal (risperidone) or Seroquel (quetiapine) may be added to the Zoloft, or a mood stabilizer/anticonvulsant such as lamotrigine (Lamictal) or topiramate (Topamax) may be added.

If you have a severe case of PTSD that requires prescription medication treatment, then you should see a specialist who is an expert at treating PTSD. These PTSD experts are found at VA hospitals (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) and university hospitals.