I have been on sertraline 25mg for 10 days now. And today was the worst day of side effects. I woke up feeling depressed took my scheduled dose fell asleep looking forward to waking feeling good as that has been my pattern for the last week. Instead I woke up tired, still depressed had pretty bad diarrhea and had this weird vibration in my head that caused mild anxiety and fear. Been sleepy all day. I was supposed to up my dose from 25mg to 50mg on day 7 but didn't, why am I feeling this way. I am sad because I thought I was making good progress and now I just feel terrible. I have an appointment with my GP tomorrow I just need some reassurance. Please help.
Sertraline - Is it normal to have a day with no side effects and the next day extreme side effects?
Question posted by Pam88 on 14 June 2021
Last updated on 14 June 2021
Answers
WildcatVet
14 June 2021
Hey, Pam!
We call it the "roller coaster effect"... the ups and downs of initial adjustment and many people experience it. It'll pass so hang in there. You're doing fine and not going backwards. It will only get better as you start to see more improvements!
WC
Pam88
14 June 2021
Thank you WC.
I am noticing change for the better with my condition. But the side effects make me reluctant to take the medicine. That vibration in my head and diarrhea I mentioned before really scared me. And I am tired, so very tired of feeling scared. But I will hold on. Could you advise, what is a sure sign that ths medicine isn't for me?
WildcatVet
14 June 2021
You should continue to see improvements as you go along. A "fair trial" is usually about 4~6 weeks and I wouldn't necessarily say it's not for you until you see how you are doing at that time.
Remember that side effects are "normal" or at least not an indication that it's not good for you for a percentage of users. They are annoying and maybe uncomfortable but they will resolve and they should for you very quickly now.
Many side effects can be manageable and most will respond to OTC remedies. Your pharmacist is your friend and can make suggestions on what is safe for you to use.
If you haven't already talked to your doctor I suggest you do and let them know about both your side effects and the progress you're making.
WC
Pam88
14 June 2021
Thank you WC.
What are you thoughts on taking my medicine late? I have to drive 1 hour after my scheduled time and I get really sleepy after I take it. Would it be ok to tale it 2 hours late?
WildcatVet
14 June 2021
Yes, you should try to take it approximately the same time every day... give or take. But are you safe wherever you're going if you take it later?
Pam88
14 June 2021
I just drove myself to my doctor. I usually take it at 9am. I skipped this morning so I can drive and I will take it a soon as I get home. Which should 2-3 hours after my schedule.
WildcatVet
15 June 2021
Oh, okay then. :)
masso
14 June 2021
Not every day can be great, you have been on this antidepressant for a week, your organism is still adjusting to the medication, most commonly this SSRI one starts seeing positive results within the the first 2 weeks and for the full therapeutic benefit it may take 4 to 6 weeks and there will be some days were you may feel as you have felt now, but that does not mean it is going to be like this for most of the time. You said you were feeling good with 25 mgs and I told you this was not a race to double the dose, give it another week with the dose you are on, if you start feeling bad then contact your Dr. and increase the dose to 50 mgs..
All the best, masso
Pam88
14 June 2021
Thank you masso
I am trying to hold on. Its just some of the side effects make me scared to take this pill I am still hoping for the best.
masso
14 June 2021
Hi Pam, hang in there and do not be scared that only causes your stress and anxiety levels to increase, so have Faith, things will get better, it is a matter of time.
Pam88
14 June 2021
Thank you. I will hang in there.
Related topics
depression, sertraline, side effect, dosage
Further information
- Sertraline uses and safety info
- Sertraline prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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