Zocitab is a prescription medication containing sertraline hydrochloride, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) specifically formulated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. This medication works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance, thereby improving mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level. Zocitab is recognized for its well-established efficacy and tolerability profile, making it a first-line option in clinical psychiatry for managing depressive symptoms and supporting long-term mental wellness under professional supervision.

Features

• Active ingredient: Sertraline Hydrochloride
• Available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg film-coated tablets
• Bioequivalent to reference listed drug
• Manufactured under cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices)
• Once-daily oral administration
• Delayed-release formulation for consistent pharmacokinetics

Benefits

• Effectively reduces symptoms of depression, including low mood, loss of interest, and fatigue
• Helps restore normal sleep patterns and improve overall daily functioning
• Supports long-term remission and reduces risk of relapse when used as prescribed
• Generally well-tolerated with a lower incidence of anticholinergic side effects compared to older antidepressants
• May also be indicated for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder
• Contributes to improved quality of life and psychosocial performance

Common use

Zocitab is primarily indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. It is also commonly prescribed off-label for other psychiatric conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), following thorough clinical assessment and diagnosis by a qualified healthcare provider.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dosage for Zocitab is 50 mg administered orally once daily, either in the morning or evening, with or without food. Dosage may be increased in increments of 50 mg at intervals of no less than one week, depending on therapeutic response and tolerability, up to a maximum daily dose of 200 mg. Dosage adjustments should be made under medical supervision, particularly in special populations such as elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, where a lower starting dose may be warranted.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of therapy or following dosage changes. Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorder, bipolar disorder, or hepatic impairment. Zocitab may cause activation of mania/hypomania; screen patients for bipolar disorder prior to initiating treatment. Caution is advised when operating machinery or driving until the patient’s response to therapy is established.

Contraindications

Zocitab is contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy due to risk of serotonin syndrome. Concomitant use with pimozide is contraindicated. Hypersensitivity to sertraline or any component of the formulation is an absolute contraindication.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) include nausea, diarrhea/loose stools, insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, somnolence, increased sweating, and sexual dysfunction (ejaculation failure, decreased libido). Most side effects are mild to moderate and tend to decrease with continued therapy. Serious side effects may include serotonin syndrome, abnormal bleeding, hyponatremia, and angle-closure glaucoma.

Drug interaction

Zocitab has the potential to interact with numerous medications including MAOIs, other serotonergic drugs (tramadol, triptans), drugs that prolong QT interval, warfarin, NSAIDs, and drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics). Concurrent use with aspirin, NSAIDs, or other drugs affecting coagulation may increase risk of bleeding. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, tachycardia, hyperthermia), dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and somnolence. There is no specific antidote for sertraline overdose; management should include supportive measures and symptomatic treatment. Gastric lavage with activated charcoal may be considered if presented early. Immediately contact a poison control center or emergency medical services.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C or 68°–77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused medication properly according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient responses may vary.

Reviews

“After six weeks on Zocitab, my depressive symptoms have significantly improved. The initial nausea subsided, and I’ve regained motivation and emotional stability.” – Patient, 42
“As a prescribing psychiatrist, I find Zocitab to be a reliable SSRI with predictable efficacy and a manageable side effect profile for most of my patients with MDD.” – Dr. Elena Rostova, MD
“Noticeable improvement in anxiety and mood within 4 weeks. Mild insomnia at first, but it resolved with evening dosing.” – Patient, 31
“Zocitab has been instrumental in maintaining remission in my patients with recurrent depression. The dosage flexibility allows for personalized treatment approaches.” – Dr. Michael Thorne, Psychiatry