I have been on sertraline 50mg for just over a week now and I am currently experiencing a number of difficult side effects. Constantly having this "sick" feeling in my throat and stomach. The anxiety is there all the time even throughout the night. Another difficult to manage effect is insomnia. I haven't slept for weeks and finding it difficult to function. Does this pass soon or require medical aid? I.e sleeping tablets.
Sertraline - Managing side effects?
- Asked
- 2 Oct 2017 by Bluestar9
- Updated
- 3 October 2017
- Topics
- depression, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, sertraline, side effect, anxiety and stress, throat, stomach
Responses (2)
Bluestar; Yes these should go away. When you start sertraline or Zoloft it is about 2 weeks some a few days more or less and takes it at the same time and these side effects should go away this is the hardest thing about the SSRI medications that is the class of medication. And to help it is okay to take it with some food to help the stomach. If after that time your still having problems then you can work on any side effects also at that point you are about 1/2 way through the full blood level of the medication but many get some relief much sooner if it is the one that is going to help you. please give it some time and you will notice in another week or so many of these side effects go away and you should start to feel a bit better. chuck1957
My friend, Chuck, is right ~ these are side effects some people experience when starting an antidepressant and the increase in anxiety is *normal*. The good news is that they do get better every day and only last a few days to a week or two.
I'm concerned about you not sleeping though because you obviously need your sleep. Perhaps you could talk to your doctor who may prescribe something for you to take for a couple of nights just to get you over the hump.
Best regards and wishing you some ZZZzzz's! Wildcat
I'm glad to know they are 'normal' for some on anti depressants. I thought it was just me. I've been getting by without sleep for a while, if this doesn't resolve in a few days then I will be sure to see my doctor about the matter. Sleeping pills should help me return from this zombie-like state. Thank you! Hoping to find my Zzzzz's soon!

Further Information
- Sertraline Information for Consumers
- Sertraline Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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Chuck, I see what you mean. I will ensure to take it with a meal from now on. Maybe I can keep up the resilience if these side effects will soon subside. That's much more reassuring, thank you.