I have been on sertraline just over 5 weeks I started on 50mg and went to 100mg two weeks ago, at the moment my anxiety is so so bad, constantly got a tight chest everyday and constant worry. I feel like this won’t ever go? Please can someone give me advice whether to stay on this medicine? Will I ever get better? Does anyone know how long it takes to get in the system as surely it should be there by now
Why am I not getting better with sertraline help?
Question posted by 17mile on 19 Jan 2022
Last updated on 20 January 2022
Answers
On a single dosage it can often take 6-8 weeks or sometimes longer for the drug to become fully therapeutic and after a dosage increase it can take a couple more weeks. Including your dosage increase, 5 weeks isn't really long enough of a trial to judge the medication.
Have you spoken with your doctor? Let them know you're having anxiety symptoms and ask for their professional advice.
It most likely is a matter of time and keeping a positive attitude. Anxiety breeds more anxiety.
Take care!
I’m so sorry to hear that you are feeling so bad.
I am no expert but from what I have read it can take a longer time for some people. They say 6-8 weeks but I’ve heard others say it was three months before the medication kicked in for them.
When I was on Lexapro many years ago it took four months before I felt better. But I did get better.
Another factor could be how long you were suffering before seeking medical help. I’ve heard that anxiety can take longer to treat, especially if you are in a bad way. That was definitely the case for me when I was put on Lexapro.
Obviously speak to your doctor but I would give it time. In the meantime you could try magnesium to help calm you. I have a powdered form and add water to turn it in to a drink. I sip it slowly and find it calms my nerves. Another thing that helps me is an APP I use on my phone called Inset Timer. It is free. There are many guided meditations specifically for those dealing with anxiety. I try to do one every day. They are only short, about 15-20 minutes and easy to follow.
I hope with all my heart that you start to turn the corner soon. Have faith in the process, that it will work and you will feel better soon
Is it normal to be moody and just feel rubbish
Is it normal to be moody and just feel rubbish
Related topics
depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, sertraline, anxiety and stress, chest
Further information
- Sertraline uses and safety info
- Sertraline prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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