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Any advice for first time taking Sertraline?

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Zezima1
Zezima1

Hi everyone,

I went to finally visit my GP today after a few years of feeling pretty down and anxious. She has prescribed me 50mg of Sertraline for my anxiety, depression and PTSD.

As disheartening as it was to hear my diagnosis, and that I could no longer convince myself I was 'OK', it feels really relieving to finally put a name (or 3) onto what it is I am feeling. So I took my first pill as soon as I came home and felt pretty dizzy and have a really clenched jaw. I have felt nauseous and cannot even think about eating anything, even though I know I probably should. With regards to my mental state, I just kind of feel a bit meh, which isn't ideal but it could be worse.

Does anyone here have any advise on how to get myself through the first few weeks of Sertraline? I've been reading this forum and can see that the first few weeks seem to be pretty tough.

Thank you!

 

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  • Guest
    Guest Zezima1

    Posted

    Yes! Take half or even a quarter!  I literally started out a quarter at a time for a week then when I went to 25 mgs and stayed there for a couple weeks because I felt pretty good!  I knew 50 was my goal so I went about quarter for a week till I am now on 50.  Yes it took longer but I think I avoided a lot of side effects/. They claim you can have increased anxiety and that is true.  Even with the small dose increase I still has some anxiety but nothing too bad:  for those who have severe anxiety side effects your doctor can prescribe a low dose of Valium or other.  keep at it. 
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