Zoloft, which is medically known as Sertraline hydrochloride, is a medication most commonly taken by those suffering from depression. In fact, Sertraline hydrochloride, which is sold under a number of other brand names in addition to Zoloft, was the most commonly prescribed form of antidepressant in 2006 with over 28,060,000 prescriptions being written in the United States alone. Unfortunately for some, there is a connection between Zoloft and acne that can be problematic.

Although acne is not listed as one of the primary side effects of taking Zoloft, it is possible to experience problems with this skin disorder while taking Zoloft. In fact, there are several accounts of people that have experienced acne outbreaks years after getting their acne “under control” after they start to take Zoloft.

If you are worried about the connection between Zoloft and acne, discuss this possible side effect with your doctor before you start taking the medications. Many doctors dismiss this side effect since it is considered to be a less common side effect. Obviously, if you suffer from major depression, you need to find help for your condition. Therefore, most people choose to give the medication a chance before dismissing it because of this potential side effect.

If you do notice acne starting to develop after you begin to take Zoloft or any of the other medications that are based off of Sertraline hydrochloride, be sure to notify your healthcare provider. In this case, you might need to consider taking another form of antidepressant because the traditional methods of treating and preventing acne may not be as effective when it is caused by the medication.

Other medications aside from Zoloft that are made primarily of Sertraline hydrochloride include:

• Apo-Sertral
• Aentra
• Concorz
• Gladem
• Lustral
• Serlain
• Serlift
• Stimuloton
• Xydep

Therefore, replacing Zoloft with any of these medications may not help with the acne problem that has developed. As such, you might need to discuss a completely different treatment program for your depression. In this case, you may reach a point at which you have to decide which is more important: having clear skin or getting help for your mental state.

If you decide that you do need to continue with the Zoloft in order to help you with your depression, you can cover the acne up with cosmetics. Just be certain that the cosmetics you select are water-based rather than oil-based so they do not aggravate the condition further.