Zoloft & Vitamin B12 Absorption

Zoloft, the brand name of sertraline, is a prescription medication used to treat major depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder 2. It belongs to the class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin used for vitamin B12 deficiency, megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia. Before using these products together, speak with a health care professional to ensure your safety.

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Zoloft works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin, a neurotransmitter found in the brain 2. This allows serotonin to remain in the brain for a longer period of time and decreases the symptoms of depression. Vitamin B12 plays a role in the breakdown of fat and carbohydrate and the formation of proteins. It also helps the cells replicate and is involved in the production of blood cells.

Metabolism

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The liver has a high amount of the cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are involved in the breakdown of medications; two of these enzymes, the CYP 2C19 and CYP 2D6, metabolize or break down Zoloft 2. The medication is removed from the body through the urine and feces. Vitamin B12 is absorbed from the stomach and is stored primarily in the kidneys, liver and adrenal glands.

Interactions

Zoloft may affect the levels of medications that are broken down in the body in same manner 2. Some examples of these medications include:

• tramadol
  
• phenytoin
  
• valproic acid
  
• lithium
  
• warfarin
  
• sumatriptan

It may also affect the levels of bile acid sequestrants, such as

• omeprazole
  
• esomeprazole
  
• lansoprazole

There is no evidence that Zoloft affects the absorption of vitamin B12, or that the levels of Zoloft are affected by the vitamin 2.

Avoiding Side Effects

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Every body is different, and you may react a certain way to a medication; therefore, if you take Zoloft, speak with your physician before using vitamin B12 supplements 2. Your physician can determine if you are able to take the vitamin and recommend a proper dose. Furthermore, your physician can monitor you accordingly. Be aware of which side effect is normal and which requires medical attention. If you are unsure, always ask a health care professional for advice.