I started taking Zoloft yesterday morning around 7.00am at 25mg and I didn’t feel anything really, until this morning around 2:30am, with extreme nausea, insomnia and dizziness. Is this a common side effect? I go up in dosage next week.
First day of Zoloft and having side effects.
Question posted by GhostVeteran_Artist on 15 Nov 2017
Last updated on 21 April 2021
5 Answers
Amend70
21 April 2021
I started taking 25mg Tuesday of this week. Last night I couldn’t sleep and I have this headache that won’t stop.
I probably slept 3 hours and didn’t go to work. The not sleeping was the worst because I was in bed eyes closed and it was like a water faucet still running after you shut it off. I just couldn’t sleep. Yesterday I had diarrhea but didn’t realize it could be the Zoloft. My hands are a bit shaky. I really really
Need to feel better.
WildcatVet
21 April 2021
Hi, Amend!
You're not alone! Many people experience some side effects when starting an antidepressant/anxiolytic:
"Very common (10% or more of users): Insomnia (up to 21%)"
"Very common (10% or more of users): Headache (up to 22%)"
"Very common (10% or more of users): Diarrhea/loose stools (up to 20%)"
The good news is that side effects generally subside within just days to a week or so. If you can hang in there just a bit longer you'll start feeling better as the drug becomes more effective.
Eventually everything will smooth out and you'll probably find that this initial discomfort is worth it for how good you're going to feel.
Best regards,
Wildcat
WildcatVet
21 April 2021
PS, Side effects can usually be managed using OTC remedies. You can ask your pharmacist for advice.
Amend70
21 April 2021
Thank you. I’ll try to hang in there. Just need to sleep as I want at 4:00 a.m for work.
chrisoates
5 June 2018
I'm on 25mgs, and my daughter on 100, I ran out of mine so I took half of hers, I feel drunk ,dizzy and off balance,was hers to strong for me... but this the first day for me..and I got a little diarrhea
Text me please, sometime my email I don't get it... thank you
geokar
8 Dec 2017
When I started on Zoloft I had insomnia but it tapered off. I had no other side effects. The first couple of weeks are the worst then you should start feeling better for most people it takes 6 to 8 weeks to reach therapeutic level. I have been on the drug for 6 months and it has worked wonders for my depression. I hope this eases your mind. Good luck.
chrisoates
5 June 2018
Thanks for that
Changehastohappen
7 Dec 2017
Hello GhostVeteran_Artist,
I just started Zoloft as well, 6 days ago. I find that it has caused insomnia, nausea, and dizziness as well. It hasn't started working for me for the depression or anxiety yet. I hope it does soon. I am also on 25mg. I was wondering how you are doing now? Have you found that your side effects have diminished? Has it started working for you?
Sidekick55
16 Nov 2017
Yes! All these won’t last longer than a week after each dose increase. Hopefully even less since you’re at such a low dose
chrisoates
5 June 2018
Thank you..are there foods that treat anxiety,and depression panic attacks
Related topics
zoloft, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, panic disorder, nausea/vomiting, major depressive disorder, side effect
Further information
- Zoloft uses and safety info
- Zoloft prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Zoloft (detailed)
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