Last reviewed · How we verify

Sertraline HCl

Tri-Service General Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

Sertraline HCl is a Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) Small molecule drug developed by Tri-Service General Hospital. It is currently FDA-approved for Major depressive disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Panic disorder. Also known as: Zoloft.

Sertraline selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin at the neuronal synapse, increasing serotonin availability in the brain.

Sertraline HCl is a small molecule used to treat various conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Myelodysplastic Syndromes, as well as sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant use. It is a hydrochloride salt form of the medication Sertraline.

At a glance

Generic nameSertraline HCl
Also known asZoloft
SponsorTri-Service General Hospital
Drug classSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
TargetSerotonin transporter (SERT)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPsychiatry / Neurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that blocks the serotonin transporter protein, preventing the reabsorption of serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into presynaptic neurons. This increases serotonin concentration in the synapse, enhancing neurotransmission and improving mood regulation. The mechanism is thought to underlie its efficacy in treating depression, anxiety disorders, and related conditions.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

Frequently asked questions about Sertraline HCl

What is Sertraline HCl?

Sertraline HCl is a Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drug developed by Tri-Service General Hospital, indicated for Major depressive disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Panic disorder.

How does Sertraline HCl work?

Sertraline selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin at the neuronal synapse, increasing serotonin availability in the brain.

What is Sertraline HCl used for?

Sertraline HCl is indicated for Major depressive disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Social anxiety disorder.

Who makes Sertraline HCl?

Sertraline HCl is developed and marketed by Tri-Service General Hospital (see full Tri-Service General Hospital pipeline at /company/tri-service-general-hospital).

Is Sertraline HCl also known as anything else?

Sertraline HCl is also known as Zoloft.

What drug class is Sertraline HCl in?

Sertraline HCl belongs to the Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. See all Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drugs at /class/selective-serotonin-reuptake-inhibitor-ssri.

What development phase is Sertraline HCl in?

Sertraline HCl is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Sertraline HCl?

Common side effects of Sertraline HCl include Nausea, Diarrhea, Headache, Tremor, Insomnia, Sexual dysfunction.

What does Sertraline HCl target?

Sertraline HCl targets Serotonin transporter (SERT) and is a Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing