Zoloft, or sertraline, is an antidepressant in a class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft is usually prescribed to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, panic attacks, anxiety disorders in social situations, and dysphoric problems during menstruation. Because Zoloft affects chemicals in the brain, its consumption should not be stopped without consulting a doctor. In addition, the doctor must also supervise the discontinuation of Zoloft consumption in order to comply with the schedule he prescribes.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Reducing Zoloft Consumption
Step 1. Consider why you want to stop taking Zoloft
Generally, do this if Zoloft has been effectively dealing with your depression or disorder. However, there are really good reasons to stop or change your treatment method with a doctor's supervision. These reasons include:
- If you experience severe or ongoing side effects.
- If your depression or disorder cannot be treated with Zoloft. This means that you keep feeling sad, anxious, or empty; easily irritated; loss of interest in pleasurable activities or hobbies; fatigue; difficulty concentrating; sleep disorders such as insomnia or oversleeping; changes in appetite; suicidal thoughts; or physical aches and pains. Be aware that Zoloft usually takes up to eight weeks to fully work. In addition, the dose may have to be increased.
- If you've been taking Zoloft for a long time (6-12 months) and your doctor doesn't think you're at risk for chronic or ongoing depression.
Step 2. Watch for any side effects you experience
Some of the side effects include: nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, weight loss, insomnia, changes in sex drive, and uncontrolled shaking of the body. Tell your doctor if any of these side effects are severe or do not go away.
In addition, suicidal thoughts may occur in young adults and children. Tell your doctor immediately if you have thoughts related to suicidal ideation
Step 3. Talk to the doctor
Discuss side effects or other reasons to stop taking Zoloft with your doctor. This will help the doctor make an informed decision and determine if now is the right time to do so.
If you've been taking Zoloft for a while (less than eight weeks), your doctor will likely advise you to wait up to eight weeks for Zoloft to work
Step 4. Stop using Zoloft gradually
Reduction of antidepressant consumption should be done slowly, with a gradual reduction in dosage to prevent symptoms of discontinuation of its consumption. This method is known as tapering. Tapering can last for weeks or months, depending on the type of antidepressant, how long you've been taking it, and what symptoms you're having. If you stop right away, your body may not have enough time to adjust, and you may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms include:
- Stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or cramps
- Sleep disturbances such as insomnia or nightmares
- Balance problems such as feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Movement or sensory problems such as numbness, tingling, tremors, and lack of coordination
- Feeling easily irritated, angry, or anxious
Step 5. Reduce consumption according to the doctor's schedule
The length of time it takes to completely stop your Zoloft dose depends on how long you have been taking it and the initial dose you were prescribed. The doctor will determine the best schedule for reducing Zoloft while minimizing the potential for symptoms of discontinuation.
- One recommended method is to reduce the Zoloft dose by 25 mg at a time. Allow at least two weeks between each dose reduction.
- Observe the tapering schedule by writing down the date and dose change.
Step 6. Document all the effects you experience
Even if you use the tapering method, you may still experience symptoms of discontinuing Zoloft. You can also be at risk for depression or recurrent disorders. Follow the schedule properly and talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
- Symptoms of discontinuation of consumption usually appear quickly, will improve after 1-2 weeks, and involve more physical complaints. To distinguish between withdrawal symptoms and recurrent depression, find out when they occur, how long they last, and what type.
- Recurrent depressive symptoms usually develop gradually after 2-3 weeks and get worse over 2-4 weeks. Call your doctor if any symptoms persist for more than 1 month.
Step 7. Continue to tell the doctor
Your doctor will monitor your progress for at least a few months after your Zoloft has been reduced. Tell your doctor about any symptoms or concerns you have.
Step 8. Take all new medications following the doctor's prescription
If you stop Zoloft because of side effects or its inability to control depression, your doctor may prescribe another antidepressant. The choice of this drug depends on many aspects, such as patient preference, previous response, effectiveness, safety and tolerance, cost, side effects, and drug interactions. If you experience side effects or your depression is not controlled, your doctor may suggest:
- Different selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including Prozac (fluoxetine), Paxil (paroxetine), Celexa (citalopram), or Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Effexor (venlafaxine)
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), such as Elavil (amitriptyline).
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can also be used after you have waited five weeks from stopping Zoloft.
Method 2 of 2: Involving Lifestyle Changes and Alternative Therapies
Step 1. Try exercising regularly
Studies show that regular exercise can help produce endorphins and increase neurotransmitters that can treat symptoms of depression. Try to exercise for approximately 30 minutes each day.
Step 2. Change your diet
A healthy diet can help the body in general, especially omega 3 fatty acids which have been shown to be an adjunct therapy for dealing with depression.
- Omega 3 fatty acids are found in foods such as kale, spinach, soybean or canola oil, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and fatty fish such as salmon. You can also buy it in a form such as fish oil gelatin capsules.
- Studies showing the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids for treating mood disorders include dosing between 1-9 grams. However, there is more evidence to suggest that lower doses can be more effective.
Step 3. Follow a consistent sleep schedule
Sleep is usually disturbed when you are depressed. Follow a healthy bedtime routine to make sure you get enough rest. Good sleep habits include:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- Avoiding stimulation before bed, such as exercise, watching TV, or using the computer
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bed
- Linking the bed to sleep instead of reading or other work
Step 4. Sunbathe
While there is no consensus on how often you should sunbathe to treat symptoms of depression, scientists agree that some types of depression (such as depression that is affected by seasonal changes) can be alleviated by sunbathing. Research also states that sunbathing can affect serotonin levels.
Generally, there is no maximum amount of sunlight. Make sure you wear sunscreen cream if you will be in the sun longer than 15 minutes
Step 5. Surround yourself with supportive people
During the process of reducing your Zoloft consumption, establish a relationship with your doctor and let him or her know your status, feelings, or symptoms. Also involve family members or close friends. They may be able to provide emotional support or recognize recurring signs of depression.
Step 6. Consider psychotherapy
Analysis of different studies shows that people who take psychotherapy while reducing their use of antidepressants have a lower risk of developing depression again. Psychotherapy is a way to help people with mental disorders, by teaching them ways to deal with unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. In this way, these people are able to use a variety of tools and strategies to manage their stress, anxiety, thoughts, and behavior. There are different types of psychotherapy. The treatment plan will depend on each person's condition, the disorder he or she has, its severity, as well as several other factors such as whether the person is on medication or not.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to help people think more positively and influence their behavior. This therapy focuses on the current problem and its solutions. A therapist will help a person to identify useless thoughts and change inaccurate beliefs, so that his behavior can change. CBT is very effective for treating depression.
- Other therapies include interpersonal therapy, which focuses on improving communication patterns; family therapy, which focuses on resolving family conflicts that may be affecting the patient's illness; or psychodynamic therapy, which focuses on helping people get to know themselves better. All of these therapies are other options that are also available.
Step 7. Consider acupuncture
Several studies show the benefits of acupuncture methods for treating depression. While acupuncture isn't part of the usual advice for dealing with depression, it can still be useful for some people. Acupuncture is a technique of inserting thin needles at specific points on the body to relieve symptoms of disease. When needles are sterilized properly, the risk is small.
Step 8. Consider meditation
An analysis of the results of studies conducted by Johns Hopkins University suggests that thirty minutes of daily meditation can relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. Practical ways to practice meditation are repeating a mantra, prayer, focusing on breathing, or reflecting on what you have read. Aspects of medication include:
- Focus – focusing on a specific object, image, or way of breathing can help take worries and stress out of your mind.
- Breathe relaxed – slow, deep, or accelerated breathing can increase oxygen levels and help you breathe more efficiently.
- Calm state – a calm state is an important aspect of meditation, especially for beginners, so that there are fewer distractions.
Tips
- You should get enough sleep when trying to cut down on Zoloft, as one of its annoying side effects is hallucinations.
- Report any symptoms of unstoppable thoughts or trouble sleeping after you start taking Zoloft, as these could be signs of bipolar disorder.
- Some people tolerate stopping SSRIs better than others. You may be able to talk to your doctor about the oral version of the drug, which will make it easier for you to gradually lower your dose.
Warning
- Stop taking Zoloft and call your doctor right away if you start experiencing any serious side effects associated with this medication, especially if you start thinking about suicide.
- This article offers medical information; however, you should not take it as medical advice. Consult your doctor before adjusting or discontinuing any prescription medication.
-
Some of the reasons why you should not stop taking Zoloft include:
- If you have just started taking Zoloft (within the last two months), your depression has cleared, and you feel you no longer need to take it.
- If you don't want to take antidepressants or drugs for other reasons while your depression is still uncontrolled
- If you want to change medicine because of side effects or the medicine is not effective
