Hey I started sertraline at 50mg back in January I stayed on this for about 7 weeks then doc increased me
To 100mg I’m into my 3 rd week but the anxiety and intrusive thoughts r still there. How long do I need to give it? Any ideas
Sertraline 100mg when do I see positives?
Question posted by Nadz1984 on 20 March 2021
Last updated on 21 March 2021
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Answers
WildcatVet
21 March 2021
Hi, Nadz,
Usually it takes about 6-8 weeks to feel the full benefit of the medication but it may take about 3-4 weeks after a dosage increase. Most people begin to see some improvements such as improved sleep, better appetite, and increased energy, etc. in the first 1-2 weeks or so.
If you feel NO improvement after the length of time you've been taking it you need to speak with your doctor. The therapeutic dose ranges from 50-200mg/day and everyone responds differently. 100mg may not be enough for you, you might need to give it a bit longer, or you may have to consider another medication.
My suggestion would be to discuss your options with your doctor and get their professional advice.
Best regards and best of luck to you.
Nadz1984
21 March 2021
Thank u so much for the reply. I have seen improvements but I’m still
Not where I want to be. The intrusive thoughts r still lurking about which causes anxiety. It’s going to be 3 weeks since I increased how much longer should I wait?
TyreseTl
21 March 2021
The medication become fully effective within 6-8 weeks mark. Sometimes it may take up to 12 weeks. 10 weeks on Zoloft is considered a “fair trail”. But you haven’t seen any improvements, so I’ll suggest you to speak with your doctor. Also, a dose increase may take several weeks to start seeing improvements. But you should definitely discuss with your doctor that your symptoms haven’t improved and he/she will know what to do, okay?
Tyrese
Nadz1984
21 March 2021
Hey thanks for the reply. Sorry I should have mentioned that I have seen improvements as I am having some beta days but not where I want to be. It’s nearly 3 weeks since I increased to 100mg how long should I give it before I see improvements
TyreseTl
21 March 2021
You should definitely discuss with your doctor. There are many choices for you such as:
Increase the dose. Therapeutic dose is(50-200mg)
Or
Adding a medication on top of Zoloft.
Or
Consider trying a different medication.
I am sorry if this isn’t enough for you. But I won’t 100% sure when you will start seeing an improvement. Therefore, you should discuss with your doctor, okay? 10 weeks is long enough.
TyreseTl
21 March 2021
Or
*wait a little longer
TyreseTl
21 March 2021
You said you saw improvements on 50mg for few days then upped to 100mg but haven’t as yet seen any improvements for 3 weeks. If “I” was you, I’ll definitely increase my dose.
Ps. I am not trying to encourage you to increase because I’m not sure if your metabolism can handle 150mg. In most cases, I am just giving you my perspective.
Related topics
Further information
- Sertraline uses and safety info
- Sertraline prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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