Long lasting effects of Sertraline/ antidepressants?

[Tiptops]

I was taking Sertraline at a 200mg dose, but gradually reduced the dose and have been without Sertraline for about 6 weeks now.

Some of the side effects had disappeared after about 10-14 days but I'm still having problematic side effects, and was wondering if this is normal or if anyone else has experienced it?

Firstly, I gained almost 2 stone while on Sertraline due to an increased appetite. Even though I'm now off Sertraline, the weight I gained isn't falling off or even gradually decreasing.

Secondly, I am always so, so hot. Before Sertraline I was a cold blooded person but wrapping up in layers to keep warm worked fine for me. Now I'm always far too hot and uncomfortable, it's making me miserable.

Has anyone else had this happen? Is there any hope of getting back to the old me?

Anyone?

I have never gained weight in Sertraline but it seems to effect other people differently. I would see your Dr in case there is a problem with your thyroid as that could be making you feel hot.
You will need to Increase your exercise & reduce calories to lose weight as it won't shift by just stopping the medication.,

Thanks for your reply. Will pop to the doctor and mention the thyroid issue as I didn't realise that could be causing it.

Regarding the weight, sorry my OP isn't written very well. I mean my increased appetite that sertraline brought on isn't changing. Before meds I was very slim (borderline underweight) and could eat anything I fancied whenever I was hungry. Now I have to watch what sort of food I eat, and ignore hunger pangs. It's pretty miserable.

hi Tiptops ,
I had the same problem with citalopram.
the weight lost took about a year without much effort. it happened itself.
still have your thyroid checked though.

Hi op I'm still on sertraline 150mg so haven't got as far as you yet. But just want to say your post gives me hope that one day I will be able to 'get better' and be off the meds. I can relate to the increase in appetite though it's a bummer as I was big before. Best wishes on your recovery

Thanks for your replies ladies.

bluebelle Yes that's what I was hoping would happen. I thought once I was off Sertraline my appetite would drop back down to normal, so losing weight wouldn't be a battle against hunger pains. Maybe I'm not giving it long enough.

susie Yes, the increased appetite sucks. It's always a case of juggling side effects vs benefits, isn't it? Very tricky and I've felt my mental health team were quite dismissive of how troublesome the side effects are. I'm not actually at a point of being well yet, I've come off my meds because of the side effects but touchwood I think I'm coping OK without them, which is great. I know I shouldn't have, but I always disliked being dependent on meds, and it is quite empowering to come off them and not have a meltdown. I'm sure you'll find yourself at that point in the future, good luck

Hi there, I've just discovered sertraline can interact / affect thyroid medication and hypothyroidism is listed as a rare side effect. Might be worth checking this out, though it might just be your body readjusting.

How are you getting on? I think it's still quite early days. Sertraline changes specific properties of some neurons, so even after the drug is out of your system, it may still take a few weeks before the neurons adjust to lower levels of neurotransmitters. Maybe your appetite will reduce soon.

Well done to you for coming off and good luck. I hope I can do the same one day. X