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I have been 5 weeks on Sertraline for anxiety and depression. I am suffering with awful side effects

Posted , 6 users are following.

carole16977
carole16977

I'm having anxiety, churning stomach, panic attacks especially early in the morning. Quite unable to function normally. I have suffered anxiety and depression before. I was on Citalopram, same side effects but eventually recovered, cannot remember how long it took. I am 75 so maybe it will take longer, but I am at the end of my tether and being worn down. Can anyone advise.

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Aimee87
    Aimee87 carole16977

    Posted

    Hello, what mg are you taking and what side effects are you having?

  • c53732
    c53732 carole16977

    Posted

    l have only been on for 2 weeks and side effects are awful . Trying to take it day by day and believe it will all settle down and l will get benefit from the drug. Only on 25 mg. From research that l have looked at it is supposed to be a good drug that works well but does have side effects and takes time to settle. l try and practice some slow deep breathing when l get panicky and also use diazapam but sparingly. Best wishes.

  • charles61038
    charles61038 carole16977

    Edited

    I am also on 25 mg of Sertraline. After 2 - 3 weeks, I started feeling some benefit from it. My doctor told me it could take 6 to 8 weeks for the full benefit. After 6 weeks I went for a follow up. He said the regular dose was 50 mg and have me a prescription for the 50. I started that, but after a couple of weeks, went back to the 25. It seemed like the 50 was too much. I have been on the 25 mg now for just over 3 months and I am feeling pretty good overall. I keep thinking I should perhaps try to up the dose to 50, but then again, as long as the 25 is doing well - leave well enough alone for now. Give it a few more weeks. Keep in mind that the 25 is a low dose - give it a chance. Let your body get used to it. Good Luck.

    • louise24797
      louise24797 charles61038

      Posted

      It's good to read about your journey on 25mg. Lots of people say it's too low for adults, but I've been on 25mg for 4 weeks, start my 5th week tomorrow and have had horrid side effects. They are easing off and anxiety not as bad, but still up and down. Tiredness is the hardest as I'm normally an active person. Today has been a day where I've been wondering if it's worth it, so it's good to read your story. I'll stick with it and see how I am after 12 weeks.

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