Advice on Anxiety and tapering Zoloft

I think you really need to talk to your doctor. Let him know that you don't want to be on medication forever - that you want this to be temporary. Ask him to provide you a plan with estimated timelines.

How long will I be on 50 mg? What is the next step? Will we taper after that? How will we taper?

These are the types of questions you should ask him/her. I don't ever suggest trying to taper off these medications on your own without the consult of a doctor. These are CNS (central nervous system medications) that directly cross the blood-brain barrier to the brain. If you are weary of the side effects of being on the medication, an incorrect taper can give you a whole new world of hell.

I was taken off Zoloft this past year because one stupid psychiatrist thought I didn't need it. I was tapered too fast and I went through really bad withdrawal effects. Granted I had been on 100 mg for about five years (which made it more difficult).

Long story short, speak with your doctor and let him/her known ALL of your concerns. Don't be afraid to question your doctor either.

"I don't agree with that because...or I don't really want to do that...do we have another option?"

Hi TG and welcome,

I am sorry to hear of your dilemma...but glad to hear that you are going with your gut, and seeking help for a taper.

Good work with consulting your pharmacist! I would go with the plan he/she has given you...

...as well as using coping skills to help you through this challenge...and beyond.

See our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great material to work with right away.

Post with us anytime for support and encouragement.😊

Scaredy Cat

Tigerlily,

Good job. No I certainly don't agree with that either! Cold turkey is never a good way to go with these medications.

Listen to your body. It is possible that you could experience some withdrawal symptoms. They probably won't be too intense - but everyone does react differently so we can't say anything for certain.

Go with what your pharmacist said, and if you feel any withdrawal symptoms that are too much to handle, then taper a little slower. Cut the pills down a little more, or give yourself a few more days in between the tapers. Overall, listen to your body and go at the pace that makes you feel best.

TG,

You won't have anything worrisome at the level you were at for that short time...maybe just some discomfort...'off' feelings...maybe some headache or head zaps.

You'll be okay though! Keep us posted and we'll keep you in support!

S.C.

You guys have been awesome. Thank you so much for your help.

TG,

I think you should do fine with this schedule. It is a new one for me anyway...going back and forth, but makes as much senses as does the skip-a-day method...

...so let us know how it goes!

S.C.

I wouldn't think so...but everyone is different.

If you start to feel poorly on Sunday, you could reinstate the 12.5, every other day for another few days and then step off from the last skipped day to nothing...

S.C.

Yep!

That's what I had in mind...and I think you will do well with this plan.

If course remember that part of the reason that a discontinuation can be difficult, is that the symptoms of anxiety often return once the medication clears the system.

So be sure to practice your coping skills to help you feel your best.

S.C.

TG,

It is most likely almost... if not already cleared.

Glad to hear you are feeling better now! May it continue!

Hugs and high fives!

S.C.