I been on zoloft 3 weeks but no lifting of depression or inability to sit still. Why this eventually subside. Am I judging this medicine too soon?
Zoloft - Will symptoms get better after my 3rd week?
Question posted by Spartan7282 on 17 Jan 2022
Last updated on 18 January 2022
Answers
Catholicmom
17 Jan 2022
Three weeks is probably too early to say whether or not the medication is working. I am on week 5 and am only just starting to notice an improvement in my condition.
Week two to three was the hardest for me with a few days of increased anxiety and agitation. It was only because I had read stories here about similar side effects that I remained hopeful.
From what I have read it can take 6-8 weeks before improvements are felt. For some it appears to take slightly longer.
I highly recommend reading the reviews here for extra encouragement.
Spartan7282
17 Jan 2022
Yeah this is the only thing I look up on the phone. Congrats on week 5 I'm really trying my best to make it to week 6. Doctor not in because of holiday. I'm hoping that it's just medication is fine where it's in in terms of mgs which is 50. I don't want to start over again with different medication. These forums give me hope and the reviews help reading thanks Catholic Mom and Wildcat
Catholicmom
18 Jan 2022
I can relate to the panic attack. I had one on day 12. It was Boxing Day and I broke down at my sister’s house, it was awful. I was so scared that the medication wasn’t working and fearful it was making me worse! But thankfully those feelings of increased anxiety only lasted three days and then lifted.
Try to hang in there. If you are still feeling bad in a few days then visit your doctor. Many years ago I was on lexapro and had a much harder time adapting to the medication than I have with Zoloft. It did eventually kick in but it took four months. I stayed on it for a few years and successfully tapered. I lived without medication for three years but personal life problems caused my anxiety to spike again.
Please know that you are not alone. Things will get better.
WildcatVet
17 Jan 2022
Hi, Spartan!
Some people feel improvements in sleep, appetite, and energy within the first two weeks or so but you should let your doctor know that you're not feeling much better.
What dose are you taking? It may not be strong enough to be therapeutic so, again, contact your doctor for professional advice.
Best regards and I hope you're feeling better quickly.
Wildcat
Spartan7282
17 Jan 2022
I'm taking 50mgs daily I split one 100mg pill in half. I feel absolutely horrible today. I woke up shaking and had panic attack. I really don't think I can make 6 weeks.
WildcatVet
17 Jan 2022
Have you spoken with your doctor. As mom said it may be a matter of essence of time for the medication to take full effect.
Unfortunately, increased depression/anxiety, restlessness, and agitation can potentially be an initial side effect of antidepressants and that could be making you feel worse.
If you're having panic attacks you do need to report it to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a mild sedative to use for a few days to a week or so until you're stabilized on the medication.
I'm sorry you're having such a rough go of it and it's difficult to have to wait and be patient. Try to hang in there... try to distract yourself... take a walk, read a good book, watch some favorite movies, do a hobby or craft. Believe it or not, meditation and adult coloring books really helped me.
Take care,
WC
Related topics
zoloft, depression, major depressive disorder, medicine, symptom
Further information
- Zoloft uses and safety info
- Zoloft prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Zoloft (detailed)
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