Are you currently taking Zoloft or have you been prescribed the drug recently? If so, you may be wondering what to expect from this antidepressant. Zoloft is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, also called an SSRI and it helps those suffering from depression by causing an inhibition of a natural cycle. Individual results with Zoloft will vary, some patients will find it incredibly effective while others will experience more side effects.
The important thing to understand when you’re afflicted with depression is that most people can get through it without the use of medicine. Prescription drugs that combat depression come with a host of side effects that may be more harmful than the condition itself.
The side effects when taking Zoloft will vary but most taking it have reported symptoms similar to withdrawal when trying to cut back or reduce the amount taken in any given day.
It is important that you monitor the effects of Zoloft on your own, either in a journal or some other record. If you keep a record, it will help when you talk to your health care provider about the effects you’re experiencing. A journal may also help you narrow down triggers or other parallels between your depression and external influences.
Common Side Effects
Side effects while taking antidepressants are common and many can appear to be more harmful than the original condition. When taking Zoloft a myriad of side effects have been reported by its user. Keep in mind that Zoloft affects people differently and you may experience one or any combination of these side effects while taking it.
Zoloft has been known to cause sexual dysfunction, nausea, dehydration, constipation, blurred vision, hearing problems and an increase in suicidal thoughts.
In regards to the psychological side effects, these are particularly hard to diagnose accurate. In fact, some side effects of taking Zoloft will fall under other psychiatric illnesses and may not be caught as relative to the drug itself.
Depression is an illness that is as unique as the person experiencing it. No one experiences the feelings of depression quite the same way as someone else. The same could be said for those who take Zoloft to battle their depression. Side effects will vary in type and intensity and sometimes even after you’ve stopped taking the drug.
The Effects of Withdrawal
Any prescription drug has the potential to create dependency in the user. The same is true for those who are taking Zoloft. In fact, nearly every antidepressant has some dependence associated with it.
While taking Zoloft, withdrawal can be felt as soon as the first missed pill, but not every patient will experience withdrawal symptoms the same way. The symptoms of withdrawal are long lasting and can render a user incapable. Withdrawal from Zoloft is similar to withdrawal from illegal drugs and can be completely debilitating to the person experiencing it.
The best way to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking Zoloft is to wean yourself off the drug. Don’t just stop taking it all at once. By slowing reducing your dose you can avoid some of the harsher withdrawal symptoms. You should always consult with your doctor or health care provider before making any changes. Also, talk to your therapist or mental health professional as well, they may be able to offer you some valuable insight in your quest to get off of Zoloft.
When you stop taking Zoloft, remember, the effects of the drug will vary so check your vital signs. You may not experience any side effects or withdrawal symptoms at all. You should, however, be aware of the dangers and risks to your health so always talk to your doctor before making serious changes to your prescription drug regimen.
