Sertraline 200mg - how long for?

[StrangeSenseOfCalm]

I started sertraline for OCD just before Christmas 2024. I increased really slowly up to 200mg, which I probably got up to in about June this year.

I’m having therapy too and my OCD has improved so much. I have days where I actually feel happy, which I haven’t done for years. I’ve still got a way to go with my OCD, but it is markedly improved.

My GP, however, suggested when I went up to 200mg that I only stay on that dose for 6 months. Which would mean starting to reduce it again in the new year. I don’t feel at all ready for that, and I know it’s 3 months away but I’m already starting to worry about it.

For those who have been on a high dose like this, how long were you at 200mg for? Are all GPs reluctant to prescribe high doses for long, or is it just mine?

I was at 200mg for 4 years and slowly reduced my dose. I’m now on 50 x

I don’t know the answer to your question but I would have assumed it’s better to come off sertraline when using warm and sunny rather then January the most depressing time of the year

How was it starting to reduce your dose? Do you think you will stay on 50mg or are you looking to come off them completely?

Yes as I was writing it I thought exactly the same. What a terrible time to be feeling even shitter than usual!

I’m on 200mg for OCD and anxiety. I’ve been on it about 2/3 years now and nobody has suggested I reduce it x

I found it difficult to begin with but I think that was more of a mental block than any actual physical symptoms, if you see what I mean? I kept thinking I was only happier because of the pills rather than all the other work I had done for my mental health.

I’m happy staying on 50mg for now but I would like to come off it completely eventually, but I’ll wait until next summer now to avoid SAD!

I’ve been on sertraline for years, mostly at 100/150mg, but last year I had a really bad relapse and having read up more about the best dose for OCD I asked to increase to 200mg.

the increase hasn’t ‘cured’ me obviously but it definitely takes the edge off the intrusive thoughts/ obsessions more than it did at 150, so I have no intention of coming off it any time soon.

It’s good your doctor is monitoring it - mine just leaves me to my own devices (can’t remember the last time I had a review before asking to increase) - but definitely don’t feel rushed to come down too quickly!

Thanks all. It’s reassuring to know that others have taken it at that dose for longer and that I might be able to do the same if needed.

Is there any issue with staying on it for life? I’m hoping to for ocd. Glad you’re feeling better op

I’ve been on 150mg sertraline continuously for over 20 years (various other SSRIs for 8 years prior). I have no plans to reduce or ever withdraw and save 200mg for just in case. Coming off it has been very unsuccessful in the past when tapering off to try different medications so it’s better for me to keep taking it.