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Just started sertraline and can't calm down

Posted , 7 users are following.

rachel03720
rachel03720

Hi all,

I have been suffering with anxiety on and off for the last 3 years, I've been through CBT and found it helpful and am currently on another waiting list to restart but after going to the doctors yesterday for an array of health anxiety issues, they have started me on 50g Sertraline ahead of starting therapy.

I made the big mistake of reading the full leaflet cover to cover and it's completely exacerbated my health anxiety, I have taken one tablet and am petrified of a heart attack.

I know it takes time to kick in but I was hoping people could talk me through their main side effects so I can at least be prepared for if I get them?

Also any positive stories would be great!

0 likes, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • chris16418
    chris16418 rachel03720

    Posted

    gm to you

    I myself started sertaline 2 weeks ago today for health anxiety, dont be alarmed by the side effects though, because there are going to be some! My first thing i noticed was the ZERO appetite with anxiety. it started the first night for me of taking it! I've had after was the chills, the shakes, plenty of nausea (still having), stomach growling/ moaning, leg pain, more anxiety, loss of sex drive, night sweats, etc..

    Everyone is different when it comes to this medication, however please keep in mind that this is all a part of your body getting used to it. I have began to feel alot better in waves thus far, so give it some time to work on you. If there's anything you need please feel free to msg me 😃 hang in there you got this!

    • rachel03720
      rachel03720 chris16418

      Posted

      Hello! thanks so much for responding, I spent about 30 minutes this morning just psyching myself up to take one, I know it seems silly but I was petrified of something bad happening to me.

      Good to know what to expect, I have a tendency to manifest symptoms in myself so no doubt I'll do it now with this too.

      Thanks for the offer of a message the same goes to you, I've spent a lot of time trying to muddle through this alone as I am sure so many have but knowing there are people out there in similar situations really helps 😃

    • chris16418
      chris16418 rachel03720

      Posted

      your welcome, remember that your not alone here, we all are having an issue in one way or another! Just keep in mind the your anxiety will get worse before it gets better. Hang in there, mine has improved about 20% thus far, its not a whole lot, but its something

  • chelsea83261
    chelsea83261 rachel03720

    Posted

    hey i started sertraline (25mg) 7 weeks ago the beginning wasnt the best i had sickness,dizziness, increased anxiety and intrusive thoughts but they do eventually calm down only a week ago i started to level out! i have taken sertraline before aswell they worked alot quicker the first time. hope you feel better soon x

    • rachel03720
      rachel03720 chelsea83261

      Posted

      Thank you! I am hoping they help, I'm so exhausted from the constant worry, it's just calming to know others are in the same boat taking the same thing and doing well!

    • chelsea83261
      chelsea83261 rachel03720

      Posted

      oh yes things do get better its just a very slow progress with it if you ever need to chat just message x

    • chelsea83261
      chelsea83261 chris16418

      Posted

      hopefully they work quicker for you. i do think mine have taken longer as iv have a baby so hardly get sleep which i dont think help

  • randall28657
    randall28657 rachel03720

    Posted

    hi ladies and gents,

    this post stood out to me. I have health anxiety as well. constantly in fear of something wrong with me. just started sertraline 2 weeks ago and it's been interesting to say the least. first week was no biggie, but the second week was a real bear.

    like chris said, ZERO appetite, shakes, nausea, more anxiety to say the least and the one that really stood out to me was stomach growling......I swear last night my stomach was making that bubbling growl for probably 5 or 6 hrs straight every few seconds. I imagine it has to do with not eating and drinking anything and my stomach protesting....but even to drink water is forced.

    anyhow, I'm gonna stick it out a while longer and see how it goes. hopefully we all get some relief sooner than later.

    • Icepops
      Icepops randall28657

      Posted

      hello, ive just

      come across this post and wanted to see how you were getting on. im only on day 3 and feel dreadful. Ive not eaten for 3 days apart from a few bites of toast.

      have things improved? thank you

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