To split sertraline pill into 8ths

[Intotheebyss]

I’m about to start on sertraline after a failed attempt a few months ago where I got so freaked out & stopped after 4 days because it made me feel like I was on MDMA. I’ve decided to take it gradually to lessen the side effects. GP said to take 25mg every other day. I would rather go even gentler and start with really small doses. My questions are has anyone done this? I can see some people do smaller doses when tapering off. Also, I can’t cut the pill evenly after splitting in half as there aren’t any score marks. I’m using a pill splitter but it’s still not accurate. Does this matter too much? I wasn’t sure if a slight difference in dose each day would be an even worse idea. The don’t do pills smaller than 50mg. Doc thought 25mg should be fine & don’t need to go smaller but it still sent my head west on 25mg and I don’t like feeling like this while looking after two small children! Thanks so much for reading.

I wouldn’t cut that small. I started in 50mg and it was fine so 25mg is a gentle start. I’m on 150mg now!

I used to tap out some of the powder from my antidepressant capsules to adjust. My GP was fine with it. It's not an exact science but it's not the end of the world with such small amounts.

Is it worth looking into another antidepressant? 25mg is very low and if it has such an adverse effect it may be that it isn't agreeing with you. Have you tried any others?

Thank you. This is the first one I’m trying and I’m breastfeeding so the choices are limited. I think I’m maybe just being a bit sensitive to it all and I need to get through the rough patch to benefit at the other side

Ah ok. I think in that case sertraline is probably the best option. If you can get through these early days then I think it will be worth it. I was on sertraline for a long time and it was a lifesaver for me. Keep us updated

I felt TERRIBLE when I first started it. My GP gave me diazepam to get through the first week. Then it all settled down. I swear it saved my life

This may be useful

Scroll to anti depressants

www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/drugs-factsheets/