2 weeks on Sertraline

Posted , 3 users are following.

Just after some reassurance that things will get better. I'd been on Sertraline for 12 years and gradually reduced it over time, because I was stable. After I came off completely I started having panic attacks so I made the decision to start it again, all with doctors advice. That was about 2 weeks ago and I'm now on 100mg for the last 10 days. I've had some ok days but the last 2 days I've been experiencing intense anxiety and it's hard to get through the day. Is it too early to expect the tablets to be working? Will I feel improvement soon? I know people can't answer these questions really, I just want some hope to hold onto that things will improve. 

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Sarah.  Same exact thing happened to me a few years ago.  Two weeks after my last dose...and I had slowly lowered my dose over a year trying to be careful. ...I started having panic attacks.  I had never had one so I thought I was having a heart attack....so I was able to go back on 25mg which took care of the panic attacks for the last few years.  Now, I have began having to increase my dose for some reason.  Probably due to some perimenopausal reasons.  Nevertheless, whenever I increase (12.5 mg at a time) my depression and anxiety definitely get worse.  Sometimes for 2-3 weeks.  So, I would definitely say a couple of days would probably be too soon.  I hope you start feeling better soon.  I am here if you need to talk.
    • Posted

      Thank you, that is reassuring. I'm doing a bit better today, so hoping things will be back on track soon. X

  • Posted

    I am right there with you Sarah.  I am sorry you are having to go through this as I know how miserable it really is.  I have been on Zoloft for almost 10 years.  I started to lower my dose a few months ago,  but after some stressful life situations my friends anxiety and panic returned,  so I went to my doctors and decided to increase my dose back up to 150mg and just learn to be okay taking meds the rest of my life if I have to.  I am on day 11 and it is TOUGH to say the least.  I have all kinds of side effects going on,  but the extreme anxiety is the most unsettling. 

    This is my 3rd time having the starting effects of Zoloft (Long story) and it always ends up getting better,  but right now where I am at it doesn't feel like it!  I try and remind myself that it just feels like forever.  This too shall pass.  Be comfortable with your discomfort,  all those things.  Sometimes it helps,  sometimes it doesn't.  

    The benefits of Zoloft just kind of sneak up on you once your body has built up enough Sertraline, and eventually you will wonder how you ever got through life without it.  Hang in there and keep us updated!  We're all in this together! <3

    • Posted

      Hi Ashley.  I'm sorry you are going through this all again too.  I've been on Zoloft for 18 years.  It does come to that point where we just have to be okay with taking them for the rest of our lives.  Or just be miserable.  You are right about when you are feeling bad you forget that it actually does work.  I have only increased my dose about 6 days ago...and I am visiting family.  I am trying to put on a brace face.  It's awful.  ((Hugs))

    • Posted

      That has to be tough!  Hang in there!  We are here if you need to vent while trying to put on a show for the family (but don't be afraid to let your family know you're suffering a bit,  someone else might be too!)  How are your side effects so far?

    • Posted

      Thanks Ashley.  I cry easily and just constantly worry about every little thing.  I would love to just be able to live a normal life and not worry so much.  
    • Posted

      Yes, trying to be ok with not being ok! I keep reminding myself that I will get through to the other side. I'm feeling a little better today. Thank you for the reply. I hope you're doing ok today and surviving the side effects. 

    • Posted

      Hi Ashley.  I made it through.  Lol.  I will be so glad when I get past this!  Thanks for checking on me

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