Hi, I have been on sertraline 50mg for 4 days now for ocd,panick attacks and anxiety. I understand it takes a while to kick in but how do you cope with the side effects? I have every single one. Racing thoughts, panick, anxiety, nausea, hot flushes. I haven’t ate or slept in 4 days maybe getting 1 hour a night. I’m thinking it’s the sleep that’s making me worse can anyone give advice on what I can do please
Will I ever get better on sertraline?
Question posted by Day96 on 1 Oct 2022
Last updated on 7 October 2022
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Answers
Poggysmum
7 Oct 2022
I’ve now been on Sertraline for 28 days. 25mg for 25 days then upped to 50mg. Side effects have been hell but I’ve kept with it (prescribed diazepam when necesssary). However past five days had two excellent normal days, though followed by a bad one. Told this is normal by my doctor! However beginning to feel more hopeful but 28 days does seem like 28 weeks. Have lost almost a stone in weight. Am keeping positive!! Take each day as it comes.
WildcatVet
1 Oct 2022
Hi, Day!
First and foremost talk to your doctor... it's very important to report side effects, progress, or lack of progress.
Side effects like you describe are very common when first starting an antidepressant but while 50mg is the standard initial dose some people need a lower dose. This could make your metabolism's adjustment to the drug a little smoother. Generally, side effects resolve within days to a week or so.
Also, your pharmacist can suggest an OTC remedy at least for the nausea that's compatible with the sertraline.
You don't have to do this alone!
Best regards and you should be feeling better soon now.
WildcatVet
1 Oct 2022
PS, you will get better and when you do it'll be worth your time and effort.
Day96
1 Oct 2022
Thank you for commenting. I’m just feeling very overwhelmed and feel like I can’t handle this feeling. I’m just hoping I can get some sleep tonight and maybe start feeling a little better soon
Poggysmum
7 Oct 2022
It didn’t help me by reading side effects generally last 2 weeks! Not in my case. Insomnia and nausea daily!! However, beginning to see a light at end of tunnel. Keep going.
Related topics
anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, sertraline, side effect
Further information
- Sertraline uses and safety info
- Sertraline prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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