Only on day 1 of zoloft/sertraline and the side effects are strong, should I continue?

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My doc started me on 50mg of sertraline yesterday and I’m scared of continuing.  It’s my first time on antidepressants and I’ve been reluctant to start, but I know it’s what’s best for me.  I completely underestimated how strong they are.  I feel so out of it and drugged, I’ve basically been in bed all day.  I know you feel worse before feeling better, but it scares me that I’ll be on something this strong.  What about when I want to stop taking them?  Is the withdrawal bad or even worth it?  I’m thinking of only taking 25mg today.

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5 Replies

  • Posted

    I started at 25 for one week and went up to 50mg on week 2.  I felt horrible anxiety and depression, couldnt sleep at all... had several panic attacks. After the 3rd week I began to calm down and feel better. Im on my 5th week and it has quited the noise in my head and I am calm, i still have bouts of anxiety but nothing like in the begining. Its up to you if you want to continue, its pretty bad for a few weeks then you finally adjust.
  • Posted

    I wouldn't drop dose without i speaking with a Dr cos that will upset the balance in the body as you have been taking 50 u have to persevere if u can some symptoms can get get worse before better my doctor told me but it will settle down and be worth it also stopping straight away can cause really bad side effects which can make you feel even worse than you do

  • Posted

    I was taking 25mg for the first 5 days, side effects were mild. Then increased to 50mg and suffered 2 more weeks. Just try to resist.
  • Posted

    I would take the dose prescribed by the doctor.

    I am 2 weeks in on 50mg and I was surprised by the side effects. If you stick with it you should improve slowly. The first week or so will probably be the worst.

  • Posted

    Hi I've just completed my first week. First few days were horrid. Like you I was out of it nothing seemed real. Anxious, depressed, mind racing with crazy thoughts. They are slowly disappearing. Today I am a little scared and paranoid. I feel like a child sometimes. Going to stick with it though. Just get through the tough times and you'll be OK.

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