Sertraline Experiences

[ByBreezyBiscuit]

Hi all,

I am just wondering what people's experiences of taking Sertraline are. I have been taking 50mg of Sertraline since around the 1st/2nd week of March.

I was always aware it takes around 3-6 weeks to notice any difference. However, within the first week or so I felt absolutely amazing almost hyperactive. The side effects were minimal and passed within a few days. I had so much more energy and was absolutely on top of the world. It felt like nothing could phase me.

I was still feeling great when my GP checked in on me so she gave me a 3 month prescription keeping the dose the same as it was seemingly working well for me. I had my first period and the anxiety came back, it faded again slightly but since then it just hasn't felt like the Sertraline is making any significant difference.

I have also been feeling really tired alot (I had full bloods done and all were fine) which I am thinking could be the Sertraline. It almost feels like the positive effects have dropped off a cliff to an extent. It has maybe taken the edge off ever so slightly.

Now I am wondering whether I should come off them, consider asking my GP to up the dose or persevering until my next medication review in a couple of months time.

I found them to be a lifesaver in controlling my emotions (I'm naturally very emotional/cry easily). I've taken many different SSRI/SRNI's for anxiety but Sertraline were a miracle for me whilst dealing with my dad's long illness and ultimately his long drawn out death. I adored him, but still haven't shed a tear 2 years on. In a way i feel the real me is slightly numbed, but I'll take that over breaking down. I also think they have given me the strength to find boundaries with people and stand up for myself when prior to this I've been the ultimate people pleaser-I just don't feel the worry about not pleasing them any more. I've been on 100mg but i'm now down to 75mg - 50'g one day, 25 the next. I play around with the dose to see what's the least I can manage on sometimes. Side effects for me have been whacky-quite large body jerks when falling asleep/relaxing at night - nothing seeing that day-and intense dreams. I've had worse side effects like the brain zaps - on Duloxetine. Everyone reacts differently, but at my worst I was suffering suicidal ideation and I can honestly say these meds have kept me sane and alive. Good luck OP. X

That early “high” on Sertraline is normal and fades.
50 mg is often just a starter dose. If it’s not helping much now, you likely need an adjustment, not stopping.
Don’t quit suddenly. Talk to your GP soon.