Zoloft is the brand name for sertraline, an antidepressant in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) family. It works by increasing the availability of serotonin, a neurotransmitter closely linked with mood, anxiety, and emotional stability. By helping to normalize serotonin signaling in the brain, Zoloft can alleviate symptoms of several mental health conditions and support more stable day-to-day functioning. It is not a sedative or a “mood booster” in the instant sense; instead, it gradually adjusts brain chemistry over weeks, leading to more balanced mood and reduced anxiety for many patients.
Clinically, Zoloft is approved and commonly used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety symptoms associated with depression, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). In depression, patients often experience low mood, loss of pleasure, fatigue, and concentration problems. Zoloft can help reduce these symptoms and improve overall functioning. In anxiety and panic disorders, it can decrease excessive worry, fear, and the frequency of panic attacks. For OCD, it helps reduce intrusive thoughts and compulsions, and in PTSD, it can ease hyperarousal, intrusive memories, and emotional numbing.
Zoloft is frequently preferred because it is generally well tolerated, has a relatively low risk of serious long-term side effects compared with older antidepressants, and can be used in a wide range of adult patients and in some adolescent cases under specialist guidance. Many individuals remain on Zoloft for months or years as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include psychotherapy, lifestyle modification, and stress management strategies. While Zoloft can be highly effective, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and careful medical assessment is essential to determine whether it is appropriate for your particular symptoms and health profile.
Zoloft is typically taken once daily, either in the morning or evening, with or without food. Consistency is critical: taking it at the same time every day helps maintain stable blood levels and reduces the risk of side effects such as nausea or insomnia. Zoloft is available in tablet and oral solution forms, with strengths that allow doctors to start low and adjust gradually. Patients should swallow tablets whole with water and carefully measure the oral solution using a proper dosing device, not household spoons.
For most adults with depression or anxiety-related conditions, the usual starting dose is 25–50 mg per day. A provider may begin with 25 mg to minimize side effects, especially in individuals who are sensitive to medications or have coexisting anxiety. The dose can then be increased in increments of 25–50 mg at intervals of at least one week, depending on response and tolerability. The typical effective dose ranges from 50 mg to 200 mg per day. For conditions like OCD and PTSD, higher doses are more commonly required, but they should still be approached gradually and under supervision.
Patients should not change their Zoloft dose, increase it, or stop taking it abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional. Stopping suddenly can lead to discontinuation symptoms such as dizziness, irritability, flu-like feelings, or sleep disturbances. If a pause or reduction in treatment is needed, a slow taper over several weeks is usually recommended. It is also important to remember that Zoloft’s benefits are not immediate; many people notice some improvement within 2–4 weeks, but full therapeutic effect may take 6–8 weeks or longer. Continuing the medication as directed, even if you do not feel better right away, is a key part of successful treatment.
Before starting Zoloft, a thorough review of your medical history, current medications, and mental health symptoms is essential. Zoloft can interact with other conditions and drugs, so complete transparency with your provider helps minimize risk. People with a history of bipolar disorder, manic episodes, or hypomania require special attention, because SSRIs like Zoloft can sometimes trigger a switch into mania if bipolar disorder is present but undiagnosed. Likewise, patients with seizure disorders, bleeding problems, liver disease, or certain heart conditions may need dose adjustments or closer monitoring.
Mental health monitoring is particularly important during the first weeks of Zoloft treatment or any time the dose is changed. In some individuals, especially adolescents and young adults, antidepressants can be associated with an increase in suicidal thoughts or self-harm behavior early in therapy. Families and caregivers should watch for worsening depression, unusual behavior changes, agitation, or newly emerging suicidal thinking and seek immediate medical help if these occur. This does not mean Zoloft is unsafe; rather, it highlights the need for active follow-up and communication with a healthcare professional.
Alcohol and recreational substances can interfere with Zoloft’s effectiveness and side-effect profile. While occasional light alcohol use might be tolerated in some patients, it is generally advisable to minimize or avoid alcohol, particularly when first starting the medication. Zoloft can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or trouble concentrating in some individuals, making it wise to see how you personally respond before driving or operating machinery. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss risks and benefits with their clinician; sertraline is often considered among the more studied SSRIs in pregnancy and lactation, but the decision to use it is always individualized based on symptom severity and alternatives.
Zoloft is not suitable for everyone. The most important absolute contraindication is concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or taking Zoloft within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. Combining these drugs can lead to a dangerous, potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, characterized by agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, fever, muscle rigidity, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Likewise, starting an MAOI soon after stopping Zoloft requires an adequate washout period to reduce this risk, so timing and coordination are crucial.
Patients who have had a known serious allergic reaction to sertraline or any of the components in Zoloft should not take it again. Allergic responses may involve rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Another important group is patients on pimozide, a medication used for certain psychiatric conditions; combining pimozide and Zoloft can increase the risk of dangerous heart rhythm disturbances and is contraindicated. In addition, individuals with very severe liver impairment may not be able to safely metabolize Zoloft and could require alternative treatments.
While not always absolute contraindications, certain situations demand extreme caution. This includes people with a history of significant bleeding disorders, current use of blood thinners, or those with pre-existing heart rhythm problems such as long QT syndrome. A careful risk–benefit assessment should be performed by a healthcare professional before initiating Zoloft in these populations. Anyone unsure whether Zoloft is safe for them should not attempt to start or obtain the medication on their own and should instead seek a structured evaluation through a legitimate medical service.
Like all medications, Zoloft can cause side effects, although many are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or trouble sleeping. Some people notice increased sweating, tremor, or a sense of nervousness or restlessness during the early weeks. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea often improve when Zoloft is taken with food or when the dose is increased gradually rather than abruptly.
Sexual side effects are also relatively common with SSRIs. These can include decreased libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, or erectile dysfunction. While these effects can be distressing, they are often dose-related and sometimes improve with time, dose adjustment, or additional strategies under a provider’s guidance. It is important to bring up any sexual side effects openly with your clinician; they are a frequent and manageable part of SSRI treatment and should not be a source of shame.
Less common but more serious side effects require prompt medical attention. These include signs of serotonin syndrome (such as severe agitation, hallucinations, rapid changes in blood pressure, high fever, coordination problems, or severe gastrointestinal distress), significant mood worsening, sudden suicidal thoughts, unusual bruising or bleeding, seizures, or severe allergic reactions. Any chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeat also warrants urgent evaluation. While such severe reactions are rare, awareness and early response are critical to staying safe while using Zoloft.
Zoloft interacts with many medications, supplements, and even some over-the-counter products, making full disclosure of all substances you take essential. The most serious interactions occur with other drugs that increase serotonin levels, such as MAOIs, certain migraine medications (triptans), other SSRIs or SNRIs, some pain medications like tramadol, and the herbal supplement St. John’s wort. Combining multiple serotonergic agents raises the risk of serotonin syndrome, so such combinations must be closely managed or avoided altogether.
Zoloft can also affect bleeding risk, especially when combined with blood thinners such as warfarin, antiplatelet drugs like aspirin or clopidogrel, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. The combination can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal bleeding or bruising. Your clinician may recommend monitoring, dose adjustments, or alternative pain relief options if you require both Zoloft and these medications. In addition, some drugs that influence liver enzymes, including certain antifungals, antibiotics, or anticonvulsants, may alter Zoloft levels in the body.
Over-the-counter cold remedies, sleep aids, and dietary supplements can also interact with Zoloft, sometimes in subtle ways that affect side-effect severity or overall response. Because of this, patients should always check with a healthcare professional before adding any new medication or supplement. Keeping a written list of all current prescriptions, OTC products, and herbal supplements and sharing it with each provider can significantly reduce the risk of harmful drug interactions while using Zoloft.
Missing a single dose of Zoloft is relatively common and usually not an emergency. If you remember the missed dose within a few hours, take it as soon as you recall. If it is already close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. Do not double up or take extra Zoloft to make up for a forgotten dose, as this can increase side effects without providing additional benefit.
If you find yourself missing doses frequently, it is important to address the underlying reasons. Setting a daily alarm, linking your medication to a routine (such as brushing your teeth), or using a pill organizer can greatly improve adherence. For individuals with complex schedules or memory concerns, involving a family member or caregiver may also help. Consistent daily use is crucial for Zoloft to maintain stable effects; inconsistent dosing can diminish its benefits and make side effects more noticeable.
If several doses have been missed in a row, especially early in treatment, contact a healthcare professional for advice. They can help determine whether you should simply resume your prior dose, restart at a lower dose, or adjust your plan. Abrupt, extended interruptions in Zoloft can sometimes cause withdrawal-like symptoms, such as irritability, sleep problems, and flu-like feelings, which further emphasizes the importance of guidance when getting back on track.
Taking more Zoloft than prescribed, whether accidentally or intentionally, can lead to overdose. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, tremor, agitation, confusion, dizziness, and in serious cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. When overdose is combined with other substances such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, or other antidepressants, the risk of life-threatening complications, including respiratory depression and dangerous heart rhythm disturbances, increases significantly.
Any suspected Zoloft overdose should be treated as a medical emergency. If you or someone else may have taken too much, call emergency services or your local poison control center immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe, and do not attempt to manage the situation alone at home. Provide as much information as possible, including the amount of Zoloft taken, the time of ingestion, and any other substances consumed. Emergency personnel can offer lifesaving support and monitoring for complications like serotonin syndrome or cardiac issues.
After an overdose event, ongoing mental health support is crucial, particularly if the overdose was intentional or related to emotional distress. Clinicians will usually reassess the medication plan, the presence of suicidal thoughts, and the overall treatment strategy. Access to crisis resources, therapy, and close follow-up visits can play an important role in preventing future crises while still offering patients the benefits of antidepressant treatment when appropriate.
Correct storage of Zoloft helps maintain its effectiveness and protects others in your household, especially children and pets, from accidental ingestion. Zoloft tablets and oral solution should be kept at room temperature, generally between 68°F and 77°F (20°C–25°C), away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Bathrooms are often humid and not ideal for long-term storage of medications; a dry cabinet or drawer out of sight and reach is usually better.
Always keep Zoloft in its original, labeled container to avoid confusion with other medications and to preserve important information such as strength, dosing instructions, and expiration date. Child-resistant caps should be fully secured after each use. If you use pillboxes for organizing doses, make sure the original container is also retained, and keep pill organizers out of reach of children and visitors who might not recognize the medication.
Expired or no-longer-needed Zoloft should be disposed of safely. Do not flush it down the toilet unless your local guidelines specifically instruct you to do so. Many communities offer medication take-back programs through pharmacies, clinics, or law enforcement agencies. When such programs are not available, mixing unused tablets with undesirable substances (such as coffee grounds or cat litter), sealing them in a container, and discarding them in the household trash is often recommended. Proper disposal minimizes the risk of accidental ingestion and environmental contamination.
In the United States, Zoloft is classified as a prescription-only medication. Federal and state regulations require that it be dispensed under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional who has evaluated your condition and determined that Zoloft is appropriate. This system is designed to ensure safe dosing, screening for contraindications, and monitoring for side effects. Buying Zoloft online without any medical assessment, or from unverified overseas pharmacies, is risky and may be illegal. Such sources may provide counterfeit or substandard products, incorrect dosages, or medications that are unsafe in combination with your existing treatments.
However, many individuals face practical barriers to traditional in-person care, such as transportation issues, time constraints, or limited access to mental health providers. This has led to the growth of home-based and telehealth models that allow patients to obtain necessary medications more conveniently while still following legal and clinical standards. Physician House Calls of Kansas offers a structured, legitimate pathway for people who want to buy Zoloft without prescription in the traditional walk-in sense, but still within the framework of U.S. law and best medical practices.
With Physician House Calls of Kansas, patients can arrange a professional evaluation through home visits or telemedicine, depending on eligibility and location. During this assessment, a licensed clinician reviews your symptoms, mental health history, current medications, and risk factors. If Zoloft is deemed clinically appropriate, the provider can initiate or continue therapy and arrange for the medication to be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy. In this way, you can access Zoloft without having to navigate a conventional office-based prescription process, yet your treatment remains medically supervised, documented, and compliant with regulatory requirements.
This model combines convenience and safety: you avoid unregulated internet sources and “no-questions-asked” vendors, but you still benefit from a streamlined, patient-centered experience. Ongoing follow-up appointments allow your clinician to monitor how you respond to Zoloft, adjust the dose if needed, and address concerns about side effects, interactions, or emotional changes over time. For many patients in Kansas who need antidepressant treatment but struggle with access, Physician House Calls of Kansas provides a practical, legal, and clinically responsible solution for obtaining Zoloft in the comfort of their own home environment.
Zoloft is the brand name for sertraline, a prescription antidepressant in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It is commonly used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults. In some cases, it is also prescribed for OCD in children and adolescents.
Zoloft works by increasing the level of serotonin, a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter), in the brain. It blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into nerve cells, making more serotonin available in the spaces between nerve cells. This improved serotonin signaling is believed to help regulate mood, anxiety, and other emotional processes over time.
Many people notice small improvements in sleep, appetite, or energy within 1–2 weeks, but mood, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts often take longer to improve. Full therapeutic effects typically appear after 4–6 weeks of consistent daily use, and sometimes up to 8–12 weeks for conditions like OCD. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on how you respond.
Typical starting doses in adults are 25–50 mg once daily, often taken in the morning or evening. The dose may be gradually increased, usually in 25–50 mg steps, depending on response and side effects. The usual effective range is 50–200 mg per day. For children or sensitive patients, doctors often start at lower doses. Only a healthcare professional should decide the dose.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea or loose stools, dry mouth, trouble sleeping or feeling sleepy, dizziness, headache, tremor, sweating, and decreased sexual desire or difficulty with orgasm. Many of these are mild and improve after the first few weeks. If side effects are severe, persistent, or worrying, contact your prescriber.
Both weight gain and weight loss can occur with Zoloft, though neither is guaranteed. Some people notice reduced appetite and slight weight loss early in treatment, while longer-term use can be associated with modest weight gain in some patients. Lifestyle factors, other medications, and underlying conditions also play a role. Monitoring weight and discussing changes with your doctor is important.
Zoloft is not considered addictive in the way substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants can be. It does not produce a “high” or cravings. However, your body can adapt to the medication, and stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal-like symptoms (discontinuation syndrome). For that reason, it should never be stopped abruptly without medical guidance.
Abruptly stopping Zoloft can lead to discontinuation symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, irritability, anxiety, flu-like feelings, “electric shock” sensations, sleep disturbances, and mood changes. These are usually temporary but can be uncomfortable. To minimize this risk, doctors usually recommend tapering the dose gradually over days to weeks.
Alcohol and Zoloft both affect the central nervous system. Combining them can worsen drowsiness, dizziness, judgment, and coordination, and may make depression or anxiety worse. Many doctors recommend either avoiding alcohol or keeping it to very small, occasional amounts while on Zoloft. If you choose to drink, discuss it with your healthcare provider first.
The decision to use Zoloft during pregnancy or breastfeeding is individualized. Untreated depression or anxiety in pregnancy has real risks, but SSRIs can be associated with certain pregnancy and newborn complications. Zoloft is often considered one of the preferred SSRIs in breastfeeding because only small amounts pass into breast milk, but careful monitoring is still needed. Always talk to your obstetrician and psychiatrist before starting, stopping, or changing Zoloft in pregnancy or while nursing.
Like other antidepressants, Zoloft carries a boxed warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults up to age 24, especially when starting treatment or changing doses. Most people do not experience this, and for many, Zoloft reduces suicidal thinking. Close monitoring by family, friends, and clinicians during the first weeks is important. Any new or worsening suicidal thoughts or unusual behavior should be reported immediately.
Yes. Sexual side effects are among the more common issues with SSRIs like Zoloft. These may include decreased libido, difficulty becoming aroused, delayed ejaculation, or trouble achieving orgasm. Not everyone experiences them, and severity varies. If sexual side effects bother you, speak with your doctor; dose adjustments, timing changes, or other strategies may help.
Zoloft can interact with a range of medicines, including other antidepressants, certain migraine medications (triptans), blood thinners like warfarin, some heart rhythm drugs, St. John’s wort, and others that affect serotonin or liver enzymes. These interactions may raise the risk of side effects or serotonin syndrome. Always provide your doctor and pharmacist with a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you take.
Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially serious condition caused by excessive serotonin activity in the brain. Symptoms may include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, sweating, muscle stiffness, tremor, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. Zoloft alone rarely causes serotonin syndrome, but the risk increases when it is combined with other serotonin-boosting drugs. Seek emergency care if these symptoms appear.
Yes. Zoloft is approved and widely used for several anxiety-related conditions, including panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety (in some regions), PTSD, and OCD. It often helps reduce excessive worry, panic attacks, social fear, and intrusive or obsessive thoughts. It is typically most effective when combined with psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Zoloft is approved in many places for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder in children and adolescents, and it is sometimes used off-label for depression and anxiety in younger patients. Because of the increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young people, close monitoring is essential. Decisions about Zoloft in children and teens should always involve a specialist in child and adolescent mental health.
The duration varies. For a first episode of depression or anxiety, many clinicians recommend continuing Zoloft for at least 6–12 months after symptoms improve to reduce the risk of relapse. For recurrent depression, chronic anxiety, or OCD, longer-term or even indefinite treatment may be recommended. The decision is individualized and should be reviewed periodically with your clinician.
Yes. Zoloft is one of the SSRIs approved for both obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder in adults and, for OCD, in some younger patients. For OCD, higher doses and longer treatment periods are often required, and combining medication with exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is strongly recommended. For PTSD, Zoloft may help with re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms.
If you remember the missed dose within a few hours of your usual time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up doses to “catch up.” Missing an occasional dose is usually not dangerous but can cause brief symptom fluctuation in some people.
Zoloft is metabolized mainly by the liver and can affect heart rhythm in rare cases. In people with significant liver disease, lower doses and slower titration are usually recommended, or another medication may be chosen. Kidney disease generally has less impact on Zoloft handling, but dosing may still need adjustment. People with known heart rhythm problems should be monitored carefully. Always discuss your medical history in detail with your doctor before starting Zoloft.
Zoloft and Prozac are both SSRIs used for depression and various anxiety disorders. Prozac has a longer half-life, meaning it stays in the body longer, which can be helpful in reducing withdrawal symptoms but may prolong side effects. Zoloft tends to have a slightly higher rate of gastrointestinal side effects early on, while Prozac is sometimes more activating or stimulating. Both are effective; choice often depends on individual response, side-effect profile, and specific diagnosis.
Zoloft and Lexapro are both commonly prescribed SSRIs for depression and anxiety. Some studies suggest Lexapro may be slightly better tolerated, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects and a somewhat lower risk of drug interactions. Zoloft, however, has strong evidence for conditions like OCD, PTSD, and social anxiety disorder. For many patients, efficacy is similar, and differences in side effects and personal response guide the choice.
Zoloft and Celexa are both SSRIs, but Celexa has more specific concerns about heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation) at higher doses, leading to strict maximum dose recommendations. Zoloft is often preferred in patients with cardiac risk factors for this reason. Celexa can be very effective for depression and anxiety, but Zoloft typically has broader approval and evidence for certain anxiety-related conditions.
Zoloft and Paxil are both SSRIs indicated for depression and several anxiety disorders. Paxil is often more sedating and more likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects, and it has a higher risk of withdrawal symptoms when stopped. Zoloft tends to be slightly more activating for some people and may have a more favorable side-effect profile overall. However, some patients respond better to Paxil; individual variation is significant.
Both Zoloft and Luvox are SSRIs used in OCD, but Luvox is especially known for OCD and has more drug–drug interactions because of its strong effect on certain liver enzymes. Zoloft is more widely used for depression, PTSD, social anxiety, and panic disorder. If a patient takes multiple other medications, Zoloft is often preferred because it usually has fewer clinically significant interactions.
Zoloft is an SSRI, while Effexor is an SNRI (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Effexor affects both serotonin and norepinephrine, which can be beneficial in some patients with severe depression or certain anxiety disorders, but it can also raise blood pressure and has a well-known withdrawal syndrome if stopped abruptly. Zoloft is often better tolerated initially and has a longer track record in certain anxiety conditions.
Zoloft (SSRI) and Cymbalta (SNRI) both treat depression and anxiety, but Cymbalta is also widely used for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and diabetic nerve pain. Cymbalta can sometimes increase blood pressure and may cause more sweating and nausea in some patients. Zoloft is more specifically focused on mood and anxiety and may be preferred when pain conditions are not a major factor.
Zoloft boosts serotonin, whereas Wellbutrin works mainly on dopamine and norepinephrine. Wellbutrin is less likely to cause sexual side effects and weight gain and may be more energizing, but it can increase anxiety in some people and is not typically a first choice for certain anxiety disorders or OCD. Zoloft is usually better for patients with significant anxiety or obsessive symptoms, while Wellbutrin may be preferable in those with low energy, fatigue, or sexual side-effect concerns.
Zoloft is an SSRI with broad efficacy for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. Buspar is an anti-anxiety medication that works differently, mainly on serotonin 1A receptors, and is generally used for generalized anxiety disorder. Buspar is less likely to cause sexual side effects or weight gain and is non-sedating, but it may be less effective for severe anxiety or comorbid depression. Zoloft is often used when both depression and anxiety are present or when long-term, broad anxiety control is needed.
Zoloft is the brand-name version of sertraline. Generic sertraline contains the same active ingredient and is required to meet strict regulatory standards for quality, strength, and effectiveness. Most people respond equally well to generic sertraline and Zoloft. Some patients report differences in side effects or symptom control when switching, often related to inactive ingredients, but for most, generics are equally effective and more affordable.
Switching between SSRIs is common when a medication is not effective or causes problematic side effects. The process can involve a direct switch, cross-taper, or gradual substitution depending on the specific drugs, doses, and your health status. Because Prozac, for example, stays in the body for a long time, the switching strategy is different than for shorter-acting SSRIs. Any switch should be done under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms and relapse.
No SSRI is universally “stronger” than the others; effectiveness is highly individual. Large studies show that overall, SSRIs like Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, and Paxil have similar average effectiveness for depression. For specific conditions—such as OCD, PTSD, and social anxiety—Zoloft has particularly strong evidence, which is one reason it is widely used. The “best” medication is the one that balances benefits and side effects for a particular person.