I'm reading the comments regarding taking sertraline. I've been prescribed it by my g.p and am so scared to take it. I've been on 10mg citalopram for about 15 years and I don't think they are working any more. Apparently you can get so used to them, they no longer have any effect. My anxiety is so bad right now and I'm really scared of it getting worse before it gets better. I know not everyone gets side effects, but I seriously couldn't cope if it did.
Sertraline side effects. Scared to take it?
Question posted by Laineloo on 26 Jan 2022
Last updated on 27 January 2022
3 Answers
Catholicmom
27 Jan 2022
I was on lexapro for 11 years and it eventually pooped out on me!
I started Zoloft six weeks ago. I experience a few side effects but not as many as when I first started lexapro. The main ones were mild nausea, lack of appetite, a funny stomach on and off for a few days, and three days of increased anxiety. I managed the anxiety by doing guided meditations on Insight Timer and going swimming. By day 15 I felt much better.
My daughter is also on sertraline and had no side effects whatsoever so just because some people do doesn’t mean everyone will.
I tried for twelve months to manage my anxiety ‘naturally’ and it was awful. It got so much worse and every day was torture. That’s no way to live.
Good luck on your journey
Laineloo
27 Jan 2022
Its the possibility of increased anxiety that holds me back. Anxiety gets so bad that I'm on the verge of suicide, so I really don't want to risk it getting worse. It's a catch 22!
Catholicmom
27 Jan 2022
It may not happen, not everyone experiences it.
And at least you know that it is only a side effect and will pass.
You will feel so much better but you have to make the first step. You are stronger than you think. We are all here supporting you ❤️
WildcatVet
26 Jan 2022
Hi, Laineloo!
I'm sorry your citalopram "pooped out" on you... it happens very commonly with long term use and no one is really certain why.
It can be scary starting a new medication but you did well on the citalopram for 15 years so there's no need to be overly concerned about side effects. Most people don't experience them and those that do find them mild and transient lasting only a few days to a week or so. Worst case scenario if you do have increased anxiety your doctor can prescribe a very mild sedative to get you through the initial adjustment period.
The alternative to trying this medication is living the way you are now... with anxiety so bad you're forced to reach out for help. Don't let your anxiety run your life for you! Remember that you did very well for many years on your medication and so why not try another drug that may work as well or even better?
Just work closely with your doctor and if you have questions or concerns along the way you can always post them here. Every one of us has been in your position and we're happy to share our experiences with you.
Best regards,
Wildcat
Inactive
26 Jan 2022
Hi Laineloo,
I myself have been on sertraline now for 5 years 75 mg. I was only diagnosed with severe anxiety in that same amount of time. During the time you are starting this medication and letting your body adjust you will go through some rough patches and this medicine can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to really start working, but when it does it really does work. You and your doctor may have to adjust the amount you need based on how your body is reacting. Trust me the scary parts I understand are scary. Lots of us have gone through it or are currently. Have you done any mediation or breathing exercises? Try them if you haven't. They may work for you. Hang in there we all know what your going through. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Related topics
panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, citalopram, sertraline, side effect, anxiety and stress, prescription
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