I had to turn to these tablets as a final resort to help myself. I'm 21 and suffer from awful anxiety to the point i cannot cope. I have been taken 25g as was told to for the first 5 days and I am only on day 3. But do feel like my anxiety will override these tablets as it's to powerful, I have a tight chest and feel like I shouldn't have read so much into the reviews as scared of all side affects. When will I feel normal again or shall I just give up? I am trying to be patient with these tablets but I dont see an ending to my anxiety, if anything it's worse now. I am scared to eat and drink as feel its not going down. It's constant and draining. Any ideas or help?
Should I stay on sertraline?
Question posted by milemol on 16 Dec 2021
Last updated on 16 December 2021 by ereihs
3 Answers
I just started Zoloft a week ago. I had a horrible time on 3 weeks of Prozac - transitioning from Lexapro to Prozac was very unpleasant. All of this unfortunately is normal. I feel like a guinea pig right now but it's important to get it right. All of these things come with these types of drugs. Try to be patient and see it through. I know it sucks.
Hi, milemol!
This type of medication does not act quickly or overnight like many standard drugs. Most people will begin to feel improvements in the first couple of weeks and it may take 4-8 weeks for the drug to become fully effective. Also, ironically, it can cause increased anxiety for the first several days to a week or so.
That being said, if you can try to be patient and maintain a positive attitude for a while you'll probably find that this medication will change your life.
Do things to distract yourself if you can... take a walk, read a book, watch a favorite movie. Try meditation and/or deep breathing when your anxiety symptoms hit.
Best regards and I hope you're feeling much better quickly.
Wildcat
Starting the meds and finding the correct dose is very difficult. When I started I felt just like you are feeling now. It took several weeks for the medication to settle into my system and be effective. Don't give up. It is worth it. Try not to read the stories of other people right now. We are all unique in what works for us. Stay in contact with your doctor. Also try to eat something. Maybe meditation and also be with people that help you feel grounded and safe. All the best to you.
Related topics
anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, sertraline, anxiety and stress, tablet
Further information
- Sertraline uses and safety info
- Sertraline information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side effects of Sertraline (detailed)
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