Can Zoloft Cause Anger?

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

I would like to know if you have ever heard of Zoloft causing someone to feel anger.  I have been on Zoloft for about one week and feel tremendous anger.  I was on Prozac and did not feel that way at all.

Thanks, Sue.

ANSWER:

While any individual can get an individual reaction to any medication, those with the cognitive generalized anxiety disorder (GAD - mind always going and thinking) get an increased anxiety level from SSRI medications.  Many individuals perceive Zoloft as the worst for causing this side effect.  Usually anger is triggered as part of dysphoria (anxiety, rage, depression and despair) in the borderline disorder (BPD).

If the GAD, particularly the cognitive component, is present, BuSpar will allow the individual to take the SSRI medication without the increased anger.