How Long Does ‘Zoloft’ Stay In Your System: Safe Guide
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Giordano, DO
The prescription medication, "Zoloft," which goes by the brand name Sertraline, is prescribed for anxiety, major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(Source:Drugs.com, 2023)
It increases the effective amount of serotonin in the brain.
Increasing the serotonin available in the brain was theorized to contribute to alleviating depression, but as of 2022, the theory of low serotonin causing depression has been debunked.
In addition, Sertraline can, unfortunately, cause a variety of side effects.
So, the question arises: how long does Zoloft stay in your system? And how can you come off the medication?
The short answer would be 5 to 6 days, with some exceptions. As for stopping this prescription drug, tapering off under a doctor's supervision would be advised.
However, if you are contemplating coming off Zoloft, you may very well understand that it is more complicated than just stopping the medication.
There's a significant chance that coming off Zoloft could lead to withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
If you have taken it daily for more than 2 months, there is a high probability that your body has already developed a physiological dependence on the medication.
Reducing or coming off the medication should only be done under the expert guidance of a provider who understands psychiatric medication withdrawal and tapering.
Zoloft: what is it?
Zoloft belongs to a class of prescription drugs called SSRIs - Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors.
Such selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase the amount of serotonin available in the brain.
Uses of Zoloft:
This drug is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and is commonly prescribed as a treatment option for several mental health disorders.
Some of the common conditions it is used to treat:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Panic Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Off-Label Uses:
Zoloft has been "off-label" for several conditions beyond its primary FDA-approved uses.
For example, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Bulimia Nervosa.
Zoloft has also been seen to be prescribed for the pain of severe diabetic neuropathy or fibromyalgia.
A key thing to note is that Zoloft only mitigates symptoms but does not treat the root cause of the emotional distress or pain.
One should fully understand the side effects and adverse effects that the medication can cause over the long term before considering the use of this drug.
Despite the increase in the use of psychiatric medication, the prevalence of mental health disorders continues to rise.
Hence, it is essential to educate oneself before using Zoloft or any SSRI. Similarly, it is essential to have expert professional guidance when looking to taper off the medication.
How Long Does Zoloft Stay in Your System?
In Blood: 1 to 2 days
In Urine: 3 to 6 days
In Saliva: 1 to 2 days
In Hair: Up to 90 days
How long does it stay in the Bloodstream?
After the last dose, Zoloft can be detected in one's Bloodstream for a day or two. A blood test is one way to measure the drug's concentration in the blood. Although not commonly used, these tests are known to be viable methods for checking overdose or medication levels. In this testing, the medication levels are measured by a lab after drawing blood.
How long does it stay in the Urine?
Zoloft is detectable in the Urine for up to six days after last use. Urine tests are considered the most popular kind among other drug tests out there. These tests require taking a sample of the Urine and examining it for drugs.
How long does it stay in the Saliva?
This medication stays in the Saliva only for about a day or two. Saliva testing for Zoloft detection is a rare occasion. However, if done, it involves using a swab inside the mouth.
How long does it stay in the Hair?
Zoloft stays in the Hair for almost three months (90 days). Hair tests can be used to detect Zoloft's concentration in the Hair, but these tests are costly and, hence, rarely used. This testing examines a tiny sample of hair (often taken from the scalp) to determine any drug residues.
What is Zoloft Half-Life?
If you have ever considered stopping Zoloft, you should first understand how it interacts with your body.
When people talk about Zoloft's Half-Life, they mean the time it takes for half of the drug to leave your body. For Zoloft, this takes 24 hours.
It is possible to experience severe side effects if you stop the medication abruptly, and for this reason, it is important to taper off Zoloft gently.
Dr. Jennifer Giordano is an expert in this field.
The average half-life of Zoloft is shorter than some of the other SSRIs, increasing the likelihood that it can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Zoloft metabolites can continue to be detected through different tests and evaluations (such as urine tests, saliva tests, hair tests/hair follicle tests) for a considerable amount of time.
It may stay present longer if you have certain medical conditions or have taken larger doses.
Your unique biology can influence how quickly or slowly your body processes the drug. Some variables that impact Zoloft metabolism:
Age: Our metabolism changes as we age. Older adults may experience slower clearance of a medication from the body.
Liver Function: People with compromised liver function may have a slower rate of Zoloft breakdown.
Dosage: Higher doses take longer to clear completely.
Other Medications: Taking additional prescription medications can interfere with Zoloft's metabolism. This has the potential to accelerate or decelerate it.
Symptoms of Zoloft's Abrupt Discontinuation
Abruptly stopping any antidepressant medication can cause withdrawal symptoms as well as overall mental instability.
This occurs as a result of your brain's inability to adjust to an abrupt change in its biochemical environment due to the rapid dose change of the prescription drug.
Typical discontinuation symptoms that are noticed are:
Dizziness
High Fever
Nausea
Headaches
Brain zaps (sensation similar to electric shocks)
Mood swings
Anxiety or panic attacks
Flu-like symptoms
Fatigue
Insomnia
Irritability
Sweating
Serotonin Syndrome
Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
Gastrointestinal issues
Increased sensitivity to sound or light
Muscle aches or tension
While these symptoms might mimic the issues Zoloft was initially prescribed for, they're likely to be due to withdrawal.
With the proper education and prescribing, withdrawal symptoms can be significantly minimized or avoided entirely.
Common Symptoms of Zoloft's Long-term Use
You may also notice some serious side effects of Zoloft from its long-term use. Some of these Zoloft side effects are:
Weight gain
Dry mouth
Sexual side effects
Fatigue
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Awareness of these effects can help set realistic expectations and influence patience.
Why Abrupt Discontinuation Can Be Dangerous
Abruptly stopping Zoloft can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
This, in turn, may interfere with one's daily life functioning.
In some cases, individuals can experience severe anxiety, akathisia, or even experience suicidal thoughts.
Tapering Off Zoloft Safely
Why Tapering Is Essential
Instead of discontinuing a medicine abruptly, tapering off involves reducing the dosage gradually over time. With Zoloft, this approach allows your brain to adapt to serotonin fluctuations more reasonably.
This deliberate procedure leads to a smoother transition and alleviates symptoms of Zoloft withdrawal.
Your body will have more time to adjust to these changes.
It's all about handling the medication safely to support your long-term well-being and mental health.
Communicate with a Medical Professional
Before making any changes to your Zoloft dose, meet with a qualified healthcare provider who understands psychiatric medication tapering and withdrawal.
They'll assess your current mental health status, review your medical history, and create a tapering schedule that best suits you.
This ensures that the process is as safe and effective as possible.
Reduce Dosage Gradually
Common safe reduction rates are between 2.5 to 10 percent every 4 to 6 weeks.
However, it is important to observe your body's response to reduced doses and adjust the pace to what best suits you.
Be patient with the time frame to do a slow taper.
Gradual reduction helps to prevent the shock of sudden changes to serotonin levels in your body and brain.
Remember, this isn't a race.
Monitor Your Symptoms
Keep a journal to track any physical or emotional changes during the tapering process.
Are you feeling more anxious?
Are you experiencing dizziness or insomnia?
Noting these details will help you and your provider adjust your tapering plan.
Monitoring your progress can also reassure you that what you're experiencing is a normal part of the process.
Incorporate Behavioral Therapy
While tapering off Zoloft, consider adding cognitive behavioral therapy to your routine.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide tools to manage underlying mental health challenges that may surface during the transition.
Support groups can also offer a sense of community and shared understanding.
Joining a support group can make the process feel less isolating.
Considering a broader perspective on well-being? Check out our Holistic Approach to Mental Health
Prioritize Self-Care
It is vital to look after yourself during this time and provide the additional assistance your body and mind need to adjust.
A balanced diet full of healthful, nutrient-dense foods that boost your mood and energy levels should be your first step.
Pair this with regular physical activity, whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or even dancing.
Sleep is also a very important part of self-care.
Aim for consistent, quality rest to help your brain recover and stabilize.
Activities like walking outdoors or deep breathing exercises can also work wonders in keeping your emotions steady.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
When taking or adjusting the dose of any medication that impacts your brain chemistry, it is important to take note of any symptoms that appear.
If you experience symptoms that endanger your well-being or that of another, including but not limited to suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, high fever, or continued vomiting, consult a medical professional or proceed to your nearest emergency room immediately.
Addressing Common Concerns
Is Zoloft Addictive?
Zoloft is not considered addictive in the traditional sense. This is because it does not generally produce cravings or compulsive use. However, long-term use can lead to physical dependence. This means that your body has become habituated to its presence.
For a detailed discussion on the signs of dependence and how to taper safely, check out our article: Is Zoloft Addictive?
How Do I Know If I'm Ready to Stop Zoloft?
Work with a mental health provider who can provide a thorough assessment of your mental health and help you understand your options from where you are presently. Ideally, this provider will provide a plan that is holistic in nature to address not only the medication but various factors that go into mental well-being.
What is the period that feels normal after discontinuation of Zoloft?
A taper of Zoloft can take well over a year or even two, depending on your particular situation, including the dose you have been taking, how long you've been taking the medication, and the pace of reduction your body can tolerate. Those who do a gradual taper at a pace their body can tolerate typically feel quite well by the time they discontinue the medication. The recovery process is also influenced by factors such as general health, life circumstances, and how much support you have.
Is it safe to discontinue Zoloft on my own?
The answer is no. Discontinuation of Zoloft without medical advice can cause severe Zoloft withdrawal symptoms and medical problems. One must always consult with a medical professional.
What if my symptoms reappear while I am still tapering off of Zoloft?
If, at any stage of tapering, the original symptoms show up, your provider might make modifications to your tapering schedule or suggest other options, such as behavioral therapy, to keep those symptoms in check.
In Short: Some Cautionary Thoughts Concerning Zoloft Discontinuation
Deciding to taper Zoloft usage is a personal decision in one's mental health journey. Not only is it possible to support the brain as it adjusts throughout the process, but discomfort can be greatly minimized as well. The journey should be guided by a healthcare provider who understands this process. Every person is unique, and so are their challenges to mental health. It takes time to find out what works for you. When you have the knowledge together, along with support, you have nothing to worry about. Take it day by day, and you'll see the results.
