Sertraline - any tips for coming off safely before pregnancy?

[ComingOffTheHappyPills]

Hello..I’d really appreciate some advice. DH and I have decided to try for a baby. However, I don’t time on my side, my gynecologist has told me I need to start TTC ASAP.

I have been on 50mg of Sertraline for anxiety for three months, the meds have been amazing, I’m back to the old me. Relaxed and able to rationalise again.

I’ve done lots of research and have decided I don’t want to be on meds when pregnant due to the risks to the baby’s health. I will go back on the meds postpartum.

I’m looking for advice on how to come off the meds safely. Someone told me I need to taper for as long as I have been on them, but three months seems a bit excessive! I’d love to hear from you if you have some experience in this situation. Thank you!

Dear OP, 50mg a day is the lowest dose, theoretically you can stop in no time. The BNF states 'The dose should preferably be reduced gradually over about 4 weeks, or longer if withdrawal symptoms emerge...' which can be within 5 days of stopping. Consider taking it on alternate days for 2 - 4 weeks before stopping altogether as a rough guide. Please discuss it with your GP and not taper it by yourself as you may need help and advice if your moods are affected. Sertraline is one of the safer SSRIs that has been studied well in pregnancy and can be used for pregnant women who really need them for their wellbeing, where benefit outweighs the risk. Consider talking therapy or ask to be referred to perinatal mental health team if things do get worse during pregnancy. Throwing baby dust your way, good luck!