Anyone that has a panic disorder/major depressive disorder/OCD... begin Zoloft only to have the anxiety level go up as a side effect, but the longer you stayed with it that side-effect subside?
Zoloft initially raise anxiety, then anxiety subside?
Question posted by Anonymous on 14 Aug 2011
Last updated on 18 March 2017
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5 Answers
mngopher
6 Dec 2016
I have been having the same issue. I started Zoloft a little over three weeks ago and still feel that my anxiety has not completely subsided. I have been taking Klonopin over the past couple of weeks with the Zoloft to help me get through the day. My doctor told me that it could take between 4-6 weeks for the medication to kick in.
Kd6789
11 Oct 2011
I'm currently going through the same thing and have been on zoloft for about a week alone total of 3 weeks if I count the transitional period when they were dereasing my paxil. Does anyone know how long it takes before the anxiety gets back down again? Wish us both luck!!!
sweetie pie
14 Aug 2011
Hello jnthomas! I have been on zoloft for about ten years now. Sometimes one may experience a little anxiety at first but it should get better as the medication has time to get in your system. Zoloft is a good antidepressant but it does not work for everyone. It does have side effects, insomnia and decrease sexual desire, seems to be the most reported ones. I have insomnia and it is so difficult for me to get it under control. But, as much as it makes me suffer, I would rather stay on the Zoloft than risk trying other drugs that may not control my depression and anxiety as well. Give it some time before you decide that it is not working for you. I wish you the best and don't give up! Sweetie Pie
Inactive
14 Aug 2011
God bless and thanks for the response. Getting anxiety under control, & OCD about being anxious is more important than most all the side effects. Thank you for the input... I'll just grin and bear it for awhile. Besides Seroquel does the sleeping for me.
LaurieShay
14 Aug 2011
Hey jnthomas,
Yes, having an initial response to Zoloft like you are having is common. The side effects should subside within the first couple of weeks. If they do not, or the anxiety becomes too much, please notify the doctor.
Best wishes,
Laurie
Inactive
14 Aug 2011
This very good to know... it will help me stick it out. It seems to be a common thread amoungst the other comments. That anxiety/nerves go up a few notches, but come down after the drug settles in.
drugcount
14 Aug 2011
I was on it. And it relieved my anxiety. I went off of it because of the sexual side effects. For me, I was numb from the waist down.
Inactive
14 Aug 2011
Hi drugcount. I was on zoloft as well, some years ago. The libido, thing is a major culprit, that as well as causing or helping to cause insomnia. I remember, several friends of mine, back then, also on zoloft, much the same complaints as you've stated. Zoloft is that kind of a drug.It either really does work for you, or you say to yourself, thats it. Time for something else. best wishes to you.
Ashleyperez87
18 March 2017
I feel sort of numb from my waist down also from zoloft. But I also have been glued to my bed hard to get out. Depression is the worst feeling. Waiting for the zoloft to kick in I am taking 50mg. Thinking they need to bump me up to 100mg I'll know in the next few days.
Related topics
zoloft, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, side effect, anxiety and stress
Further information
- Zoloft uses and safety info
- Zoloft prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Zoloft (detailed)
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