Any opinions about Zoloft or Sertraline?

Posted by mazel47 @mazel47, Sep 8 5:45pm

My husband passed away almost a year ago. I do feel a little depressed sometimes. My pcp has prescribed 50 mg sertraline. I have not taken it yet as I do not want to depend on medication. My doctor said I can take half of the pill. Does anyone have any side effects with Setraline

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Zoloft / sertraline didn't help me much, and I put on 5 quick pounds. After years, discontinued. My recommendation - get outside for sunshine & fresh air, get some exercise, be with friends & people you like being around, have a reason to get up each morning, do things like volunteer, take a part time job, work a hobby, whatever you can do to stay busy.

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@johneckenrode11

Zoloft / sertraline didn't help me much, and I put on 5 quick pounds. After years, discontinued. My recommendation - get outside for sunshine & fresh air, get some exercise, be with friends & people you like being around, have a reason to get up each morning, do things like volunteer, take a part time job, work a hobby, whatever you can do to stay busy.

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Thank you!

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Unfortunately the worst drug I ever used. The side effects were absolutely terrible for me personally.
Brain zaps, nightmares, restless leg syndrome, dizziness, migraines, unable to sleep, falling and my equilibrium was off.
As fast as I was prescribed this medication and stopped it after 8 weeks. Why 8 weeks, because they tell you to wait to see if the medication works?
It was a pure struggle. One in which I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

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Thank you for the input. I don’t think I will take the medication.

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If you change your mind and feel that you cannot cope well I would suggest the lowest dose (12.5mg). I lost my husband of 40 years 4 years ago and still have problems coping with it and from what I understand from others it continues and doesn't get much better, one just "copes" better. Grief is a lonely road that no one understands except you. I do hope you are doing better....but know that you are not alone in that journey. I'm so very sorry for your loss.

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12.5mg will be just right for me . I have reservations as the pill is 50mg and the Dr said I can take half. Even 25mg is too much for me as I am very small and I don’t take any medication except nexium. But if I really need it I would take the dosage you recommended.
You are so right about grief. I thank you for taking the time to post. I find it very comforting and I appreciate it.
Sorry for your loss too.

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I feel that many times the physicians when prescribing medication do not consider the size of the person. I am 5 feet tall and weigh 94 lb so an adult dose with many medications is WAY to much. But also, there are medications that are not weight dependent. I feel that a "tad" of Zoloft may help lift the clouds so that you can think a little clearer and have the energy to plan and do things. And it's a no-brainer stopping it once you feel better.

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Hello @mazel47

I took Sertraline for a brief and had some side effects...but I was also taking Wellbutrin. After a month, I was off Sertraline and stayed on Wellbutrin only. Over time it helped.

So I would say the following: (1) medications could have side effect, especially antidepressants; (2) I was in pretty bad shape when I started taking Wellbutrin and I just prayed it would work (takes about 4 weeks) I was struggling everyday.

Don't ever be afraid to take them if you need them. They helped me. But it also takes things like therapy, support groups, and self-care.

Hope this helps.

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