Sertraline in the UK — what you need to know

Sertraline (sometimes sold as Lustral) is a common SSRI used for depression, anxiety, OCD and other conditions. If you’re thinking about it or have been prescribed it, you probably want straight answers: how to get it, how much it costs, and what to expect. This page gives clear, practical steps so you can act with confidence.

How to get sertraline in the UK

Start with your GP or a mental health service like IAPT. They’ll do a short assessment and prescribe if it’s right for you. You can also see a private psychiatrist or use a UK-registered online clinic — but they must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) or the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to be legitimate.

In England sertraline is usually available on the NHS with the standard prescription charge applying; in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland prescriptions are free for residents. Private prescriptions and online clinics will charge for the consultation and the medicine. Never use overseas pharmacies that don’t require a valid UK prescription — they can be unsafe.

What to expect: dose, effects and side effects

Most adults start on 25–50 mg once daily. Your doctor may increase the dose after a few weeks if you need more effect. It can take 2–6 weeks to feel the full benefit for mood and anxiety. Keep taking it even if you don’t notice changes right away — stopping early is common and can prevent improvement.

Common early side effects include nausea, sleep changes, mild headaches, and feeling jittery. Sexual side effects and reduced libido are possible and can persist. If side effects are bad, tell your prescriber — changing the time of day, adjusting dose, or switching drugs are options.

Do not stop sertraline suddenly. Withdrawal (sometimes called discontinuation symptoms) can include dizziness, flu-like symptoms, or mood changes. Your doctor will usually reduce the dose slowly when stopping.

Watch for red flags: worsening mood, new suicidal thoughts, severe allergic reaction, or signs of serotonin syndrome (high fever, fast heartbeat, confusion). If these happen, seek urgent medical help.

Interactions matter. Avoid starting MAO inhibitors or certain antipsychotics without guidance. Tell your prescriber about other medicines, herbal supplements (like St John’s wort), and alcohol use.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding need a discussion with your clinician — sertraline may be used in pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks, but decisions should be personalised.

Quick checklist: get a proper UK prescription, use a GPhC-registered pharmacy, expect 2–6 weeks for benefit, report serious side effects, and never stop abruptly. If you want help comparing NHS vs. private options or have questions about brands and costs, ask your GP or pharmacist — they can give up-to-date, local advice.