Zoloft and Bonjesta Interaction Guidelines

Medication Information

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used for anxiety and depression, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1, 2
Compared to other SSRIs, sertraline has less effect on the metabolism of other medications, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians 3
Sertraline may interact with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 4

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends monitoring for increased drowsiness, especially when initiating therapy or changing doses, due to the potential additive sedative effects of sertraline and doxylamine 1
Caution is warranted when combining multiple medications that might affect serotonin pathways, with symptoms of serotonin syndrome including mental status changes, neuromuscular hyperactivity, and autonomic hyperactivity, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1, 4

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry suggests starting with the lowest effective dose of Bonjesta when adding it to existing sertraline therapy, and monitoring for symptoms of excessive sedation during the first 24-48 hours after combining medications 1, 4
Ongoing monitoring should include watching for signs of excessive sedation or drowsiness, serotonin syndrome, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate, as recommended by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1, 4

Patients should be informed about possible increased sedation when taking both medications, and advised to avoid activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them, as recommended by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
Any unusual symptoms, particularly those suggestive of serotonin syndrome, should be reported promptly, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1, 4