Specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors constitute a new class of psychotherapeutic agents that promote enhanced central serotonergic neurotransmission in animal studies. Sertraline, a member of this class, exhibits considerable potency and specificity in inhibiting serotonin neuronal reuptake in preclinical studies. Thus, it is likely to exert antidepressant activity without significant anticholinergic, cardiovascular, and sedative side effects. Other animal studies demonstrating decreases in food intake and body weight and reduction in voluntary alcohol consumption after sertraline administration suggest a potential for wider clinical application.