What Happens When You Mix Zoloft With Marijuana?

Although there is not enough academic research to determine if the combination of Zoloft and marijuana can cause health problems, both substances increase the neurotransmitter serotonin levels in the brain.

If the levels of serotonin in the brain become too high, a life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome can occur. 

While there may not be a specific connection between the two drugs, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before taking Zoloft and participating in marijuana use.

Uses Of Zoloft & Marijuana

Both Zoloft and medical marijuana can be used to help mental health issues.

Zoloft

The FDA-approved sertraline (brand name Zoloft) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant prescription medication used to help treat symptoms caused by a number of disorders such as:

• major depressive disorder (MDD)
• panic disorder (PD)
• obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• general anxiety disorder (GAD)
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Those who take this prescription drug may find that the medication eases their symptoms of mental illness such as panic attacks, anxiety, and obsessive thoughts.

Marijuana

Marijuana, also referred to as cannabis, contains certain cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids can ease certain symptoms of specific medical conditions

Marijuana use has been known to help treat those suffering from epilepsy because it helps prevent seizures. In addition to this, cannabis use can come in the form of smoking weed or taking edibles.

Some states offer legal recreational marijuana, some provide medical marijuana, and in some states the drug is still considered to be illegal.

Effects Of Mixing Zoloft & Marijuana

Zoloft and marijuana create a number of side effects in addition to increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Mixing these two substances may increase or worsen the side effects of one or both drugs.

Side Effects Of Zoloft

Those who take Zoloft may experience a number of potential side effects. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some of the common side effects of Zoloft may include:

• nausea
• tremors
• agitation
• decreased libido
• sweating
• anxiety
• sleep problems

Side Effects Of Marijuana

Some of the side effects of marijuana, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), can include:

• drowsiness
• feelings of euphoria
• increase in heart rate
• impaired memory
• altered sense of time
• changes in mood
• impaired body movement

Participating in drug abuse with either drug can result in fluctuations in blood pressure, increased depression and anxiety, and fatigue.

Serotonin Syndrome

Those who take high doses of Zoloft or marijuana may experience life-threatening health problems due to the potential serotonin syndrome which can take place.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include:

• restlessness/agitation
• fast heartbeat
• hallucinations
• increased body temperature and blood pressure
• loss of coordination
• nausea/vomiting 

To avoid serotonin syndrome, always take the prescribed dosage of Zoloft issued to you by your doctor, not a high nor low dose.

Mental Health Concerns

Those who have certain mental health issues may see the worsening of their health condition due to the adverse reactions which can occur. 

Those with certain mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder, should avoid combining these drugs as manic episodes, hallucinations, or severe depression can occur.

Drug Interactions

A number of drug interactions may take place when certain medications are combined. To avoid any allergic reactions or adverse events, speak with your doctor before mixing the following with Zoloft or marijuana:

• other SSRIs such as Prozac, Lexapro, and Paxil
• antidepressants such as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• other meds including antihistamines
• central nervous system (CNS) depressants
• vitamins or supplements
• benzodiazepines

If you or a loved one frequently mix Zoloft and marijuana and are concerned over potential health issues, please contact us today to learn how we can help.