I am a 37 year old male and have been struggling with panic attacks and anxiety for 3 years now and am on the verge of losing my job as I am avoiding more and more activities and some days can no longer leave home and drive. I wake up in the middle of the night with severe panic attacks and feel as though I am going crazy. I am TERRIFIED of taking pills as I react very easily to bodily sensations. My anxiety stems from irrational thoughts I am going to have a heart attack and die. I take my pulse 50 times a day and am always checking. I had a really bad response to Lexapro 3 years ago that 3 hours after taking it, I had the most severe attack of my life and ended up in the emergency room with sky high blood pressure, pulse and feeling of dread. The medical staff did all of the usual routine heart tests and ultimately diagnosed it as an anxiety reaction. I am terrified of the same thing happening with the Zoloft. My psychiatrist suggested taking it with a small dose of Ativan to counteract the initial negative effects. Is the adjustment period really that bad? I am terrified of it making me feel more anxious. Any positive experiences with this drug or stories about it changing your life would be very much appreciated. I need all of the motivation and support I can get ! Thank you !!
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12 Answers
TH
thumper65
14 Nov 2014
you sound like the old me ask for paxil I have my life back I didnt come out of the house for years was even scared to take trash to curb would carry the phone with me at all times ocd so bad would wake up with attacks omg I was in bad shape and terrified of taking pills but i had to and i sat at the er and took one omg you cant keep me home I dont even need my valium anymore please try it . good luck
Votes: +1
BO
BostonJS37
15 Nov 2014
Thanks for posting! I can't just take the pill and be alone because my thoughts are so irrational and crazy I will imagine all of these terrible side effects the pill is doing to me. I am going into a residential treatment center in a week to get stabilized on meds and to re-establish structure in my days. It is costing me 10K for a month! I am praying I come out a changed person
SH
shelly1603
29 Aug 2014
Hi there sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. I Too have been suffering from anxiety for the past 4 years sometimes 2 the extent that is has hugely effected my life to the point that I could not function a normal basis. When I was first put on a antidepressant I point blank refused to take it as I have a huge fear of medications, side effects etc along with health anxiety. Eventually unfortunately due to a hospitalisation I had no choice and took the antidepressant along with in my case xanax. I have to say once the initial couple of weeks of my body adjusting was over I was able to take back control of my life which had been a living hell before that. I won't go into specific details here about how bad my life had got, but it has improved 100% to the extent that I am now withdrawing from the xanax, on a tiny dose of the antidepressant.
These meds sometimes get bad press but sometimes your body needs a break from the stress and strain to rest and these meds can help with that, believe me I know where your coming from I could tell you all the side effects of a paracetamol tablet lol but these meds have literally been a life safer to me. Just one thing I would encourage you once you've had a rest from the symptoms you also work on the underlying issues and causes of your anxiety, good luck with everything.
Votes: +0
BO
BostonJS37
29 Aug 2014
Thanks so much for your response. I am going to a new psychiatrist next Wednesday and am hoping for some answers. Lexapro made me go to the ER 3 years ago and caused extreme anxiety. I am so tried Zoloft and made me very jittery and scared. I am going to ask if there is something sedating/calming that will stabilize my anxious crazy mind immediately. I researched going to a hospital/rehab center and was told you "just have anxiety" and that they would not admit me for just that. Apparently it is not considered a serious enough mental illness to be hospitalized.
SH
shelly1603
29 Aug 2014
Its easy for doctors to say that when there not going through extreme anxiety. I know some antidepressant s can cause unpleasant symptoms for a few days until your body adapts and this isn't easy to cope with of your already anxious about meds. I found zispen very good as a first med because its also a sedative as well as an antidepressant so maybe this might be a route to look at ( zispen is a brand name sorry mertazapine is its general name)
I am SOOOO sorry you are going through this!!! Although I have never been on Zoloft, I've heard really good things about it. - I have taken Celexa for over 10 yrs. and it really helps with my anxiety (Although I still need Ativan every once in awhile.) My panic attacks are like yours: I feel as if I am going crazy... and also I couldn't seem to get enough air anywhere... my very big backyard, seemed like a tiny room, etc. I would end up pacing up and down my street-several times even in my robe :( my poor husband would be my bodyguard, but he had to stay somewhat far from me... OMG... as I'm writing this, I def. did look crazy! And I agree, the more you panic about having a panic attack, the worse it gets... been there! I also get that it is really, really scary not knowing when the next one will come...
I am happy to say, that ever since I've been on Celexa (as I mentioned before,for more than 10 yrs.- I have only had about 3 panic attacks!) So, please know you are not alone, and don't be afraid to try new meds... I really hope Zoloft works; but if it doesn't, remember there are more choices. Remember that whatever side effects you may experience until you find the right med, can't be worse than the quality of life you have had for the last 3 yrs.!
Good-luck :)
Votes: +0
BO
BostonJS37
28 Aug 2014
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. I am seeing a new doctor next week to figure out if there is something I can take that will work immediately. I feel like I am literally living in a nightmare I cannot wake up from right now. Crying fits almost every day, panic attacks constantly. Last night I slept on the floor in my parents bedroom because I was too afraid to sleep in the room next door! The most baffling part is my therapist and every doctor I see tells me I am young and healthy and "just have anxiety". It is crazy how much of a living hell it is to live with this every day yet clinically it is not considered a serious mental illness
BA
Bailey67
29 Aug 2014
I'm soooo sorry :( I forgot to ask you... have you come off from another med recently? I ask, because I know (from experience) that if you come off a med, either w/o weening off slowly or just stop taking it, it may either induce or worsen panic attacks and anxiety.
You'll be in my thoughts...
FA
fayfaith
29 June 2014
I had taken Zoloft off n on for almost 25 years n it helped me tremendously. As well as taking xanax n doxepin. I describe my prescription(meds) as my life saver n called one prescription my miracle drug. And I too was also afraid at the beginning to take these prescriptions. I had never taken (meds)before, so it was all knew to me. And when I have to try something new that feeling can still be there.I just have to work through it. Knowing I will manage n be alright no matter how scary. We all hate taking these (meds),but we hate being sick too. So we have to tolerate the "trial & error" time to find what works best for Us. Just hang in there,you will get through it. And you will be thankful you stuck it out. I have tried quite a few antipressents over the years n benzos. Try not to worry so much,it doesn't help. Less worry equals less stress, less anxiety n less panic. I know... It's easier said than done.
When you begin feeling these attacks/emotions just set back n attempt to relax n try taking in a deep breathe n breath in n out slowly,several times over. Do this for a number of minutes n repeat if needed/nasicery. This should help some! Please keep Us updated on your progress! Wish you the best of love n jappiness. ~ God Bless ~
Votes: +1
BO
BostonJS37
30 June 2014
Thank you !!
MC
Mcroberts
8 June 2014
Hi I also on Zoloft my dosage is 200mgs. I am now back at work and my anxiety is mostly under control. It has been the best antipressant I have been on. I also take busporion and mirtazipine.
Votes: +1
BO
BostonJS37
25 June 2014
How was your adjustment period? I started Zoloft today. I literally only took 1/4 of a 25 milligram pill and took a little Ativan about 30 minutes before. I felt a little jittery shortly after taking it and just felt slightly foggy headed all day. Later in the day I developed severe stomach cramps and a little nausea. Is this normal?
JE
jelly22
7 July 2014
Boston, I suggest you take exactly what your Dr. prescribed. Also it can take 2 to 3 weeks to get into your system & work. I think it's possible you weren't feeling well because of your anxiety in taking a new medicine. I hope your feeling better by now. Let us know.
JE
jelly22
7 June 2014
I've been taking Sertraline 100mg for over 5 years. I have at times taken 150mg advised by my doctor. I will never stop taking this medicine. It has stabilized my anxiety and helps me with depression. I hope it works for you too!
Votes: +1
PL
plusku
2 June 2014
I can totally relate to you as I am the same way about starting any new meds. What we both actually have is OCD Anxiety that develops into PD. Our intrusive thoughts are directly attached to our body sensations and every little change that is felt throws us into panic mode. I'm 61 and have battled this and depression most of my life. Zoloft is excellent and was the first antidepressant I took back in the 80's along with small doses of Xanax. It did help a lot and I didn't have any bad side effects. I was on it for 10 years with good results then it started not helping as much and I was switched to another one which helped for about 15 yrs and now just recently started another one and am on small doses of Ativan also - which helps alot. My advice - just "Feel The Fear and Do It Anyway" (Which is also the name of a good book to read about Anxiety Disorders) Take the Ativan about 1 hour before the Zoloft until you get use to it and see that you are ok.
YOU CAN DO IT! Nothing bad is going to happen to you and you will get better!! You are always welcome to contact me or anyone else on here for support. That's why we're all here!!
Votes: +3
BO
BostonJS37
2 June 2014
Thank you very much!
PI
Pigletsmama
3 June 2014
My computer isn't working very well, and I had written you a post about saving your job. You might need some time off to allow time for these meds to work. Look under the FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act). Your dr can write a letter for you to give your employer, simply saying you have a 'medical illness' and need time off. You are allowed up to 12 weeks, and under this Federal law, your employer can't fire you or lay you off. You also qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act. I don't know if your employer knows about your panic problem, but one suggestion is to ask your family dr to write the letter (you can ask the psychiatrist to talk to him/her) and that way your employer doesn't have to know you're seeing a psychiatrist. Your dr. can take you off for, say 4 weeks,and then if you need more time, can write another letter, but the total time off is 12 weeks.
The important thing when you're off work, is not to 'hide' in your house at this will reinforce the agoraphobia. You need to get out every day. Also if you can find a therapist who can provide cognitive-behavioral therapy, that would be really helpful. Otherwise, any bookstore has workbooks on anxiety that give clear instructions on cognitive-behavioral techniques - so really work on those while you're home. And for the fear of taking the meds, if your dr agrees, you can sit in his lobby (or a lobby in a hospital) and take the meds there which might make you feel safer--close to medical help. But chances are you'll feel fine. Another thing - if you let the psychiatrist know you're at risk for losing your job, he/she might consider putting you on a benzodiazepine (I've found clonazepam is best for panic). The problem with these are that they are very hard to come off of, and your dr is probably trying to avoid that. But you've got to consider your inability to function in life versus getting on effective meds (like clonazepam) - it's the old risk vs. benefit issue. You might want to read Panic Disorder, a Medical Point of View, Dr. William Kernodle. It helped me so much (I have no financial interest in this or anything). So PLEASE let us know how you are doing
BO
BostonJS37
10 June 2014
Thank you so much :)
ME
Melissajanern
2 Sep 2015
I know it's been a year since you posted this but I hope you've gotten the help you needed and are feeling better. Anxiety is the worst feeling. I am newly diagnosed with anxiety and have started Zoloft. My doctor has me on 1mg of Ativan morning and night to combat the anxiety until the Zoloft kicks in. I just started week 3 of Zoloft today. It definitely helps to take it right before bed, with an Ativan. Then I sleep great and don't feel some of the strange side effects of the Zoloft. I really hope the Zoloft kicks in soon, in a week or two. The Ativan isn't all bad, I don't think I could function with taking care of my three little girls if I didn't take it. The anxiety can be overwhelming. And if I didn't sleep, it sets me up for bad days. When I try to skip the Ativan because I think I feel
Ok, I end up having bad days. So my doctor has encouraged me to stop experimenting with it and just take it am and pm for a few weeks. The side effects aren't so bad, if I sit down, I get sleepy. Luckily I don't have a chance to sit very often with these kids :) how are you doing these days?
All the symptoms you have sound so familiar. I've been through them all, and it is terrifying, but the fear/worry about another panic attack happening again is causing more panic. High blood pressure can occur with panic attacks but then usually goes back to normal after the attack. It sounds like you're still worried about your heart. Sounds like you need an exam and reassurance by a cardiologist. Please don't let the fear of what happened with Lexapro prevent you from trying Zoloft, especially now that your dr is giving you Ativan along with it. For people with panic, doctors often start with the lowest dose available of an SSRI along with a small dose of Ativan or similar benzodiazepine, which is good. You might have been given too high a dose of Lexapro to start with, given your panic. Almost all the SSRIs will in panic patients might make them feel a bit anxious at first (which is the reason your dr wisely gave you the Ativan).
The fact that the Zoloft might really help give you relief in a few weeks is probably worth trying it. Please read The Anxiety Disease by Dr. David Sheehan. It is outdated as far as meds, but is very reassuring and should address most all your concerns. Don't give up.
As far is being on the verge of losing your job, have you told this to the psychiatrist? They usually prescribe meds often based on how your symptoms affect your ability to function and might give you something different if they realize the severity of the panic and the development of agoraphobia. By the way, I've heard that Zoloft works very well for anxiety in many people.
Votes: +1
BO
BostonJS37
1 June 2014
Thank you!!
WA
Wanipuk
31 May 2014
Hi there i suffer the same thing I tried sertraline 50mg been been taking for a year now and works wonders I feel great and no more anxiety
Votes: +3
SH
Sharilee4051
17 July 2017
I take 100 mg of Zoloft and by anxiety is still out of control
IN
Inactive
29 May 2014
I think that we have all been where you are now... sounds like you are having a really hard time... I would try the meds, its worth a try you may lose your job if you don't get the help that you need... you will never know it it will help you if you don't give it a try. I've taken all three of the meds that you mentioned, and lexapro was one that did not work for me. zoloft, and ativan together may help you... if not sometimes we have to keep trying others until we find the one/ones that work best for our needs. I wish you all the best.
Votes: +1
KA
kaismama
29 May 2014
It sounds like the therapist has the right idea, I'd take the ativan about half an hr before taking the zoloft. If you can get thru this you have a good chance of ridding yourself from the crippling anxiety. Maybe having someone with you when you take it will help.
Votes: +1
CH
chig81
29 May 2014
Its sounds like your anxiety is severely interfering with your life ive been struggling with the same issues ive been on xanax and remeron for a couple months and it has helped tremendously I can socialize feel comfort in public my anxiety got so bad at one point somtimes I couldnt even answer my phone I dont feel this extreme anxiety anymore. but of course there are negatives that come with taking benzos you have to weigh out the good and bad but it sounds like your going through a really tough time I personaly would try the ativan i personaly have never been on ativan but its in the benzo family and should give you some comfort. Its worth a try. God bless im sure you will get through this it may take a little time to find out what works for you as everyone is different but you will get there. Oh I personal find exersising whether its walking , running , or lifting weights any kind of exercises help hope this helps you.
