A tragic overdose case has raised concerns about the safety of commonly prescribed antidepressants after 55-year-old Grace Uludag died at her home in Kent. Toxicology reports later revealed dangerously high levels of sertraline in her bloodstream.

Uludag had complained of dizziness and shortness of breath the day before her death but reportedly avoided hospital due to long waiting times. She later became dizzy, fell at home, and went into cardiac arrest despite paramedics responding to an emergency call.

An inquest found 1.94 milligrams of sertraline per litre of blood in her system, exceeding the level considered a contributing factor in fatal cases. The coroner ruled the death an accidental overdose, stating there was no evidence the medication had been taken intentionally to cause harm.

Sertraline—marketed as Zoloft in the United States and Lustral in the UK—is one of the most widely prescribed antidepressants. The medication belongs to the SSRI class, which works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

The drug is commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Health guidance from the NHS warns that doses should be carefully monitored and typically should not exceed 200mg per day.

Medical experts note that SSRI poisoning can cause symptoms including nausea, agitation, tremors, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, dangerously high serotonin levels can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Research published in The Lancet has also examined side effects of antidepressants, including potential changes in weight, heart rate, and cholesterol during early treatment. Doctors emphasize that the medications remain generally safe when used correctly.

Uludag’s family said there was no indication she intended to harm herself, describing her as devoted to her children and grandchildren. Her death has renewed calls for greater awareness about dosage safety and the potential risks of widely used medications.