Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and other conditions. Learn how Zoloft works, its side effects, and precautions. See risks & benefits. Learn more about ZOLOFT® (sertraline HCl), a prescription treatment for depression. Zoloft is an antidepressant used to treat major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor, to benefit your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Sertraline, sold under the brand name Zoloft among others, is an antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class [11] used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. [12] Sertraline Tablets Sertraline (Zoloft) is a medication that increases the amount of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a hormone that helps regulate your mood. It treats depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Find out how Zoloft is used to treat anxiety, its effectiveness, dosage, side effects, and when it may be the right option for you. Find patient medical information for Sertraline (Zoloft) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings See risks & benefits. Learn about what ZOLOFT® (sertraline HCl) is and how it works in the treatment of depression. It is in an antidepressant drug class known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks and other mood disorders. Doses should be stopped slowly to help prevent withdrawal symptoms. Zoloft can be used for long-term treatment if needed. Continue reading.