Zoloft & Sweating
Antidepressants like Zoloft offer relief for many battling depression and anxiety. However, one common concern among users is excessive sweating, which can either be isolated to one specific area or affect the whole body.
If you've noticed a sudden uptick in perspiration since starting Zoloft, you're not alone. It's estimated that approximately 10% of those taking the medication experience this side effect. In severe cases, it can be the cause of patients prematurely stopping the treatment.
Why It Happens
The research is relatively scarce on the specifics of excess sweating due to antidepressants. Sertraline belongs to a class of drugs called SSRIs, which boost serotonin levels in the brain.
It is thought that serotonin plays a role in regulating body temperature by its effect on the hypothalamus, thus potentially impacting sweating patterns.
Individual factors like dosage and sensitivity can influence the likelihood and severity of sweating as a side effect.
Downsides of Sweating
Excessive sweating can really disrupt your life, making it harder to do everyday things and interact with others. It might even make you less likely to stick to your treatment plan.
Plus, it's important to know that your body doesn't usually get used to this side effect, even if you've been taking the medication for a long time. Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes, which can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
Reducing Sweating From Zoloft
There are potential ways to ease the symptoms of sweating or even reduce it completely. Everyone's experience is unique, so finding what works best for you may require some time and patience. Contact your physician first if you suspect these suggestions may not be suitable for you.
1. Stay Cool
The most elementary advice is to choose breathable clothing and avoid hot environments to keep the body temperature regulated. Fans or air conditioning can offer relief, particularly in warmer climates or indoors.
2. Adjust Indoor Humidity
Reducing environmental humidity can make a big difference in the sensation of how much you sweat. In humid conditions where surrounding air cannot hold further water vapor and thus sweat evaporates slowly.Modern air conditioners will reduce the humidity as well as cool down the room. If you have access to one, consider using it.
3. Hydrate
Combat dehydration caused by sweating by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Limit intake of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can worsen dehydration and sweating. Even without excessive sweating, the healthy adult should consume at least 11 to 15 cups (2.7 to 3.7 liters) of fluids a day.
Make sure to replenish electrolytes and sugars in sufficient quantities as well. This includes sodium, potassium, and glucose, but also micronutrients such as magnesium, iron, calcium, and others.
4. Reduce Stress
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate sweating, so incorporate relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation into your daily routine to promote calmness. Keep in mind that SSRIs, such as Zoloft, may increase anxiety during the first couple weeks of taking the medication.
5. Track Diet
New research indicates that dietary modifications, such as adopting a vegetarian diet, may help reduce the severity of hyperhidrosis. Keep a daily track of your diet and investigate if any specific food items may increase your symptoms.
Consume items containing sufficient micronutrients and electrolytes to replenish any losses from excessive sweating.
6. Drying Topical Creams
Daily use of drying topical creams, typically containing aluminum chloride or aluminum chloride hexahydrate, is often the initial treatment approach.
These creams are applied nightly and covered to aid absorption, yielding significant effectiveness. However, some individuals may experience discomfort such as burning or skin reactions.
7. Change Medication
If your excessive sweating from Zoloft persists for several weeks despite trying the remedies mentioned earlier and it is still bothering you, then consult your prescribing medical doctor about treatment options other than Sertraline.
They can help you alternative medications that are suitable to your specific needs, whether it's for managing depression or any other underlying condition. View the side effect chart for antidepressants to learn more about their differences and effects.
8. Oral Medications
Systemic therapies, known as anticholinergics, are oral medications that induce a drying effect throughout the body. One example is Oxybutynin, which can reduce sweating in depressed patients treated with Sertraline, according to a scientific paper from 2012.
Anticholinergics are generally beneficial for individuals experiencing sweating in multiple areas. While effective, they can lead to side effects like dry mouth and dry eyes. Over time, some individuals may notice a decrease in effectiveness. Discussing these oral medications with your doctor can be a last resort if Zoloft is the only effective alternative for your depression.
Finding The Right Antidepressant
It can be a difficult process to find the antidepressant most suitable to your needs and circumstances, with the least amount of side effects. With the help of your doctor, assess the side effects profile of any antidepressants carefully, as intolerable side effects are a common reason for treatment discontinuation.
For general-purpose guidance, consider taking the antidepressant quiz. It is not a substitute for working closely with your prescribing physician, but it may kickstart the conversation with your doctor about potentially suitable options to consider.
Last update: August 10, 2024
Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a physician, before starting any new treatment or making changes to your existing treatment plan. Individual responses to treatment may vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and circumstances. If you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms of disease or mental illness, seek immediate medical attention.