Can You Crush Zoloft (Sertraline) Tablets?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Zoloft (sertraline) tablets can be crushed.

Question

Can you advise me if I am able to crush sertraline 100 mg tablets? I have to take 2 each day. I am recently finding it difficult to swallow or halve these tablets. I also have to take 40mg of pravastatin sodium. Can I crush these as well? Many thanks.

Asked by Babs On Oct 30, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Nov 03, 2022
Last updated Apr 28, 2024

Key points

  • Zoloft (sertraline) tablets can safely be crushed.
  • Alternative options to crushing Zoloft tablets include halving them or switching to the oral concentrated solution (20mg/mL).

Answer

Zoloft (sertraline) tablets can safely be crushed and mixed with a food (e.g., pudding, applesauce) or a drink for immediate administration.

If you are having trouble swallowing the tablets, in addition to being able to crush them, they can also be split in half.

In fact, most generic sertraline tablets are scored down the middle, making them easier to split.

I do want to mention here that sertraline is also available in capsules in two different strengths:

  • 150mg
  • 200mg

Sertraline capsules should not be opened, split or crushed, but, again, doing so to the tablets is perfectly fine.

How To Take Crushed Sertraline Tablets

If you plan on mixing crushed sertraline tablets with liquid, you want to make sure not to use grapefruit juice.

Grapefruit juice can potentially inhibit the metabolism of sertraline, increasing concentrations of the drug, which could increase the risk of side effects. The clinical significance of this isn't well known, but, to be safe, don't take sertraline with grapefruit juice.

Alternatives To Crushing

Even though sertraline tablets can be safely crushed, you do have some alternative options.

As mentioned, the tablets can be split as well, which may make it easier to swallow compared to a whole tablet.

Additionally, sertraline is available as an oral solution in a concentration of 20mg/mL. It is a good alternative if you can't swallow solid dosage forms.

Final Words

You also mentioned pravastatin in your question. Those tablets are safe to crush as well.

I hope you found this helpful! Reach back out anytime.

References

  • Zoloft Prescribing Information, AccessFDA
  • Sertraline Capsules Prescribing Information, AccessFDA
  • Sertraline Monograph, PubChem

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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