Myself114: introduction Zoloft / sertraline

[Myself114]

Hi,

 

I am 67 yo female, I am on Sertraline 50mg since 2001. I think I had mania all way along however most recently due to pandemic my negative effects are way too strong so I am looking to taper it off to slightly lower dose. The irritability is very high so does mood swings form few hours to few days which are now very bad.

 

So I have many questions for my particular case, like speed of tapering, how to dose Zoloft (it's quite hard to make 1/8th of tablet and not sure about diluting), if I should split the doses to avoid maximum plasma concentrations (but I can't take it before night) etc.

 

The mania is full-blown with episodes of something like not even on c-rated horrors.

 

My psychiatrist is usually very careful with giving too much drugs however she does seem not to care much with antidepressants. Most recently she prescribed Sertraline 200mg to my friend 70 yo female and she constantly falls. I have read that in this age this is definitely wrong dose as the side effects cancel all benefits. I think she feels "high" so she feels OK, but I don't think this is the way and she should try to some good psychotherapy instead and obviously lower dose. And she continues to live this dangerous live now because of euphoria.

 

Edited November 8, 2021 by ChessieCat
added spacing for easier reading

[Kiasofia]

Welcome @Myself114

Unfortunately most doctors do not understand well how these drugs affect people, so it's important to read and learn all you can in this forum.

 

What symptoms have you noticed when you reduced from 50mg to 43.75? Did the irritability and mood swings start before or after you reduced the dose? What kind of "mania" are you having now? Did it start when you were at 50 mg or happen when you lowered the dose?

 

If you are feeling worse now than at 50 mg it means you should not reduce the dose any more until you are better.

 

Before tapering more read this:

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

NEVER SKIP DOSES TO TAPER

Tips for tapering off sertraline (Zoloft)

 

In some countries you can get Sertraine/Zoloft as a liquid, it is also possible to make yourself, to make doses that don't exist in pills.

 

You have been taking this drug for a long time and need to be careful to monitor withdrawal and go slowly.

 

Learn about withdrawal so you know what to look for:

What is withdrawal syndrome?

Dr. Joseph Glenmullen's withdrawal symptom checklist

 

Are you taking any other medications, vitamins, supplements? What about alcohol, coffee, nicotine use?

 

When we have a few more details, we will be in a better position to offer support and suggestions. This is your Introductory topic, where you can ask questions and connect with other members.  Please stay in touch and let us know how you are doing.

Edited November 9, 2021 by Kiasofia