Sertraline User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)
Brand names: Zoloft
Sertraline has an average rating of 7.3 out of 10 from a total of 4,403 reviews on Drugs.com. 65% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 18% reported a negative experience.
Reviews for Sertraline
- Dani...
- September 6, 2016
Zoloft (sertraline) for Depression "I told myself that if a miracle happened and this worked, that I would write a review. Let me start off by saying that this drug, literally, saved my LIFE. I've always battled anxiety and panic attacks, and was on a small dose of Paxil, and that seemed to take the edge off. I took it on and off for years. After I had my second baby at 28, I got terrible postpartum depression. I had thoughts of suicide, racing thoughts constantly, couldn't nap, and took forever to fall asleep at night. I literally spent three months just thinking and obsessing over how horrible I felt. I wanted to crawl out of my skin and die. I was barely showering, brushing my teeth and hair, and would stay in the same sweatpants and shirt for days. I could go on forever, but I'll get to the point. After three months of pure hell, I went to my doctor for help. I was prescribed 50 ML of Zoloft. After being on it for 4 weeks, I stopped taking it because it wasn't working. After going another 2 weeks feeling miserable, I went to my doctor again. She recommended we up the dose and stay on it for at least 6 weeks. Well, after two weeks on 100 ML, I realized I was feeling better. I would go minutes without thinking negatively, then I would go hours, then full days. It feels SO good to feel like myself again. I truly thought I would be miserable forever. Please get help and try something if you are feeling terrible. Everyone is curable with the right drug and right dose. I wish I got help sooner. TRY THIS! It will work! If for some reason it doesn't, try something else! GET HELP NOW! I was doing the same thing you are - googling all types of antidepressants convinced there was no cure and they would never work. Stop spending your life wondering when you will be yourself again. You WILL get better and be 100% your old self again with an antidepressant!"
- 2468
- February 13, 2020
For Anxiety and Stress "I’m 45 years old and have left my marriage experiencing anxiety. I have also experienced social anxiety, regardless of being a teacher and generally an outgoing person. After a discussion with my GP about sleep problems, she said I fit the criteria for depression. I hadn’t seen myself as depressed as I was able to enjoy life. After feeling desperate one too many times, I began the medication, reluctantly. I experienced about two weeks of shakiness, nausea, extreme tiredness, blurred vision, all of these symptoms were manageable for me as long as I had that time off work. I increased the dose gradually and took 6-8 weeks to feel the full effects. Every problem now seems surmountable, I feel confident, strong, more energised and inspired in life and I haven’t looked back. I am so grateful for that conversation with my GP. I’m writing this review for all those out there that can relate, and aren’t sure if they’re ‘bad enough’, only to find that they can benefit immensely."
Frequently asked questions
- How long does Zoloft (sertraline) withdrawal last?
- SSRIs vs SNRIs - What's the difference between them?
- How long does Zoloft (sertraline) take to work?
- Does Zoloft (sertraline) cause weight gain?
- Annar...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- June 14, 2021
For Anxiety and Stress "I had depression and panic attacks a year ago and started Citalopram, but had a bad reaction. I avoided SSRIs after that and used books by Claire Weekes, which got me well after about 3 months by passing through the panic. In December, I overdid things and had a relapse, but recovery was harder due to bad depression from January to March. I was a mental and physical wreck and could hardly walk to the car. I was desperate and started on Sertraline 25mg for one week and then 50mg for 8 weeks. The first few weeks were very hard for my mind and body, but reviews on this site kept me going. I’ve been on 50mg for 2 months now and am happier than I’ve been in years. I can walk 4 miles a day and am back at work again. I can care for my grandkids and have peace and joy in my life. I would advise anyone struggling with the side effects to try hard to last at least 8 weeks. It took that long for me to truly feel like my old self again, and I am SO glad I didn’t give up. God bless you all x"
- Sue
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- July 20, 2021
For Anxiety and Stress "I have been on Sertraline for 5 weeks now and was so cautious as I have had maybe 3 SSRIs in the past. I've had nearly every side effect: nausea, headaches, panic attacks, hot sweats, hangover feelings, and was so worried it wouldn't get better. I have anxiety and pure O, and in week 5, I can honestly say my negative thoughts have been quietened down significantly. I've never taken any other medications that have ever done this, it's unbelievable. My mind is so calm I feel like a different person for the first time in years. Please don't be disheartened by the worsening symptoms in the first 4/5 weeks, it does get better, stick with it. The only thing I'd say is my emotions are a bit deadened too, but much better than searing anxiety and negative thinking. Also, remember there is always hope, get all the help you can, and I hope sertraline helps you too."
Are you taking this medicine?
- Butte...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- June 5, 2020
Zoloft (sertraline) for Social Anxiety Disorder "I have GAD. I knew I was needing support emotionally. 15 years ago, I had used Zoloft and it worked well, so I asked my doctor if I could use it again. So I started on 25mg and after 2 weeks, I upped to the 50 mg my doctor prescribed. Honestly, week 3 and 4 were the worst for me because I couldn't eat, and I felt so much worse with anxiety and lack of peace of mind. Because I was working from home, and others mentioned that the first month was bad, I felt like I was being pushed under emotionally. I had to do a lot of self-talk like 'I am not my feelings, this will pass,' etc. I took my Zoloft at night, and it seemed by evening, I always felt better, but mornings were so difficult. But right at the end of week four, a cloud lifted, and I felt peaceful and calm. So I appreciate others sharing their experience because that's exactly what happened to me. And I pushed through it, and I'm glad I did because I feel much better. Hope that helps someone in week 3. It does get better. Hang in there."
- Debbie
- Taken for less than 1 month
- July 9, 2021
For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I was given a prescription for Zoloft starting at 12.5 mg and increasing it in seven days to 25 mg. After a week of taking 25 mg, I did not feel good. I dropped it back to 12.5 mg, and I can honestly say my anxiety is almost gone, and I have had zero panic attacks. It’s been a full week again of being back on 12.5 mg. I am going to be cautiously optimistic that this is actually going to be a game-changer, and I will start to feel better after years and years of trying so many different medications. I always felt that they were giving me much too high of a dose. Hope this might help somebody."
More FAQ
- Is Zoloft (sertraline) a controlled substance?
- Prozac vs Zoloft - What are the Differences & Similarities?
- What are some common side effects of antidepressants?
- Can I take tramadol with sertraline?
- Xavi
- August 21, 2019
Zoloft (sertraline) for Panic Disorder "This drug Zoloft saved my life. I was in the darkest depths. Rampant anxiety to the point it was almost impossible to go to work. I couldn't go out in public, get haircuts or go to the dentist because I would have panic attacks. Every time I woke up, I was sad that I was alive because the anxiety would hit me like a flood of terror. Zoloft took me 180. I am absolutely fine now. I still have minor anxiety but just a normal human amount. I am happy and healthy, and I have a girlfriend for the first time in my life, and I am working out and I am doing well at work. The bad side effects are non-existent for me. Sleep, appetite, and weight were unaffected. When I started Zoloft, the anxiety skyrocketed. But after 4 weeks, I woke up one morning and it was like an angel drew the curtains open for me and the light was shining. I woke up and instantly felt better and had hope for the future. If it weren't for Zoloft, I wouldn't have made it."
- Jay
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- June 8, 2020
Zoloft (sertraline) for Depression "I started taking Zoloft after 8 months of post-concussion syndrome symptoms. My anxiety and very low mood were affecting every aspect of my life. I was suicidal. I started with 50mg for the first month. Only side effects for me were a bit of nausea the first week and a lack of appetite. By week 4, we went up to 100mg and everything has improved significantly! I can separate emotions from facts, which I couldn't do before. The people I thought were 'against me' don't seem to bother me whatsoever now. I've gotten my life back. I have energy and an optimistic attitude. My friends and family have noticed in big ways. It's been a life-changer for me. The only things I would say are side effects: Low libido, Shortened Sleep. I usually wake up in the middle of the night now."
- Anonymous
- August 5, 2008
Zoloft (sertraline) for Depression "I've been on Zoloft 50mg for over two years. I am a more relaxed and easy-going person because of Zoloft. Prior to starting the medicine, I was anxious all the time, worried constantly about everything, and suffered periods of depression and hopelessness. Now I am a better wife, friend, and person in general."
- Frank...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- November 21, 2019
For Anxiety and Stress "Like several people I've read about, I was very anti-medication for my mental health and have resisted taking anything to help with anxiety and depression for many years. About a month ago, my doctor suggested sertraline, and I said I'd think about it. Anyway, I said I'd give it a try. I am lost for words to describe how much better I'm feeling. After just two weeks, I feel I'm back to my real self. It's as if the nagging voice in the background has been silenced and that a great weight has been lifted from me. Every aspect of life is better - concentration, body aches and pains, clarity, sleep, and most of all no constant worrying about every little thing. Can honestly say it's the best decision I've made in a long time. Best wishes to all."
- Rgdadad
- December 13, 2013
Zoloft (sertraline) for Panic Disorder "This message is for anyone out there right now reading this. I am a 32-year-old father of four with a wonderful wife. Good career, nice home. I had no reason to feel depressed, stressed, panicked, or anxious; however, a few months ago it happened and all started with the first panic attack on the night of my birthday. I fought doctors' advice and tried to only take Xanax as needed, all the while the symptoms became worse. After 3 long months, I broke down and took my first Zoloft. Two weeks later, I am me again. Going places, eating, enjoying, laughing, living. This is the medicine you need. Take it. Don't think about it. Take it. Your life will come back and only memories of panic/anxiety. Your brain is off balance due to stress. You need this medicine to correct it."
- jimbob
- Taken for less than 1 month
- October 2, 2020
For Anxiety and Stress "I sent a review on 22nd September and thought I would give an update. I'm still on 50 mg sertraline, the 3rd week was bad and I felt as bad as before I started. I was thinking of giving up but instead rang my GP. She advised me to keep on 50mg until it leveled off for another 2 weeks. I was reluctant but did as she said. After a couple of bad days, it did level off and now I feel normal again. I've had a good few days and I'm ready to go up to 75mg next week. Better sleep although dreams are weird to say the least. Glad I stuck with it. If you're struggling, hang in there, it does get better but takes time. Give it at least 4 to 6 weeks, you can do it."
- Spooky
- May 22, 2020
For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I’m an anxious person and self-managed for many years. After 12 months of struggling, I finally decided to take meds. Beforehand, I poured through all the side effect information/experiences, worrying! I just want to say... wish I’d done it sooner. Side effects lasted 4 weeks, worst in the first 2. Makes you feel a bit rubbish: headaches, nausea, jaw tightness, insomnia...brain fog and brain fizzes that feel a bit like anxiety/panic attacks (come in waves and pass in an hour). It *all* goes away eventually! I worked while starting this drug & didn’t need any time off - don’t worry. You will feel back to normal by week 4! On my 5th week and I’ve begun to notice the difference. There’s still a bit of rumination, but the restlessness is gone. The last week I’ve felt happier and dare I say braver than before! If you’re reading this, worrying about the side effects...Trust me, it really isn’t that bad. Be patient - you will get there!"
- Hopps
- July 8, 2021
For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I’ve always dealt with anxiety, which I’ve dealt with on my own until a stressful job and the COVID pandemic. I started getting panic attacks and just cry hysterically out of nowhere. Finally, after day two of my husband calling out of work to stay with me, I told him I needed help. My PCP started me on 50 mg of sertraline after being diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. The first week was awful. I had every side effect under the sun. Sleep was hard to come by. I was pretty much bed-bound the first week, except to get up and shower. I had to push myself to take care of the dogs or eat. My anxiety was 100 times worse. I knew that it was to be expected and the medicine takes weeks to feel the effects. I was determined to stick with it. I’m glad I did. After a week, each day I felt better. It’s been a year since I started it, and I feel amazing. I never realized how crummy anxiety made me feel until now! If you are having a tough time starting it, don’t give up. It will get better."
- May...
- October 10, 2019
Zoloft (sertraline) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder "I’ve dealt with anxiety since I was 22 (now 28). At the start of this year, my anxiety got bad. At my lowest, I decided to make an appointment to see a doctor. I was sobbing after I got off the phone to book the appointment because I felt my anxiety had defeated me. Little did I know that I was finally choosing to take control. I was prescribed 50mg of Zoloft on 4/1/19 and have stayed there. The beginning was rough. I felt jittery, nauseous, and “weird”. It took a month before I started to notice a difference. My generalized anxiety started to fade, and it felt amazing! Intrusive thoughts began to settle down too! I was sleeping better, handling stress better, I could socialize better, overall I had a lot more confidence. I take my pill at the same time every day. I can’t believe how much better I feel today; it can bring me tears. I needed to feel better to see how bad I was. Please don’t be afraid to try it. Give it time! Don’t judge it after 2 or even 3 weeks. Be patient and allow it to work."
- Saved...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- March 12, 2020
For Anxiety and Stress "I have been on Zoloft for 15 years. However, I started getting anxiety when I had to get a CT scan to make sure my cancer was gone. I guess the worry of the results. Then, a week after that, my close friend passed away, and I had a work situation that became stressful. I talked to my doctor, and she upped my dose from 50 to 75mg. For the next four weeks, I thought I was going crazy. I had hot flashes, a heavy head syndrome, sweats, headaches, and some nausea. Reading these reviews helped me so much. I can honestly say I have been feeling wonderful. It has taken 4 weeks and 3 days, and it’s like night and day. Stick with it. It does get better. I hope I continue feeling this way! God bless you all. And remember, I went through it too."
- Sbano
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- August 25, 2020
Zoloft (sertraline) for Social Anxiety Disorder "So far so good :) I used to have anxiety attacks over little things like answering the phone or job interviews and definitely missed out on a lot of my college experience because my social anxiety was so bad. I’ve been on Zoloft for about 8 months now for GAD as well as social anxiety and I can say I feel almost like a new person. I now don’t fear going places like the bank or gas station alone. The thought of having to call someone I don’t know on the phone is easy breezy and I now have a job which involves me talking to customers all day, it’s truly amazing!!!! Give it time to work, but remember everyone’s different so don’t be discouraged :)"
- Michi...
- April 21, 2014
Zoloft (sertraline) for Depression "I was suffering from being a slave to my negative thoughts, making assumptions about my relationship that my partner was cheating on me or having a secret life, constantly being controlling over where things go in the house, how things should be, really severe mood swings and ridiculous anger which I would ignite a lot of arguments and have the urge to get physical and just completely lose it and not think rationally. My marriage was on the verge of failure due to my negative actions and my husband was at his breaking point. My doc prescribed me 50mg of Zoloft and I finally started it, I'm on week 2 and I feel incredibly calm, content and full of life again. I feel like I can handle situation in a positive manner."
- BobbyS
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- March 4, 2023
For Anxiety and Stress "If you're currently reading this, rest assured that there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Despite being an outgoing 29-year-old male, I have been struggling with anxiety for longer than I care to remember. However, by taking sertraline on and off since I was 23, I have found relief every time without fail. The side effects can be incredibly challenging during the first 2-5 weeks of taking the medication, with symptoms like sleeplessness, loss of appetite, low energy, dizziness, and headaches. At times, it felt like I wouldn't make it through. However, after about 2 weeks, my family and friends noticed my smile returning even if I didn't. And after 4-5 weeks, it was as if a magical spark had been reignited within me, and I was myself again. When combined with self-love and care, sertraline can help you feel like yourself again. It's important to push through the challenging times and find a new hobby or rekindle an old one alongside taking the medication. With this combination, you can feel unstoppable! I currently take 100mg of sertraline, although I started with 25mg. Remember, you are stronger than you realize, and we're all in this together!"
- basic
- Taken for 10 years or more
- September 10, 2023
Zoloft (sertraline) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder "I left a review 7 years ago and am just coming back to offer encouragement. I started taking Zoloft about 10 years ago for obsessive, debilitating negative thoughts that made me (among other things) unfairly suspicious of my partner, paranoid to let my child out of my sight, and highly restrictive of my own eating habits. The relief that Zoloft brought me was surreal. I have now been taking 100 mg per day for over a decade and have experienced absolutely no negative side effects. My mind is quiet, calm, and although I still experience some anxiety, it does not consume me the way it did for years. I would highly recommend giving it a try if you are struggling - it has truly been life changing."
- Boo
- January 8, 2019
Zoloft (sertraline) for Depression "I started taking Zoloft yesterday, and after reading hundreds of reviews, I have to share my own experience. Don't listen to all of the negative reviews and give this drug a shot. No matter what you try, there is a chance it won't work and there will be side effects. Your best bet to getting better is to just try and give it time to see if it works for you. Last night, I took my first pill and was waiting for the worst to happen after reading about the side effects. But all of a sudden, my bed became comfortable. Food had flavor. I started to smile and actually felt like talking to one of my friends. I willingly took a shower, and I felt like singing and dancing. I felt completely sober and like myself... just without any of my depression or anxiety. I am facing some of the side effects, but that glimpse of what my life would be like without depression/anxiety gave me so much hope for this drug."
- Riz
- February 18, 2020
For Anxiety and Stress "I started taking Sertraline 3 weeks ago for anxiety and panic. I’ve always been able to manage it, but it got to the point where it changed and I had no control. The first 2 weeks were horrific. I had every side effect going including exhaustion, increased anxiety, restlessness, tingling, headaches, dry heaving, shakes, nausea, increased HR, and even ended up in ER for chest pain. I decided to stick with it to see what happened. From day 17, the side effects improved, and I felt my energy increase. I also have hypothyroidism, so an increase in energy and clarity is really helpful! I’m hopeful that it may improve even more. I haven’t had any panic attacks since the first few days now, and my HR has also reduced. The only thing I’ve found is that I’ve had a tickly throat and a deep dry cough triggered by it. Has anyone else experienced this? Good luck to all of you reading this, it’s so hard living with these feelings, but we can all find a way through x"
- SJREED
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- January 1, 2021
For Anxiety and Stress "After finding my partner and father of our kids dead when I woke up on my birthday, I had a breakdown and just couldn't cope. I could not motivate myself to do anything, just wanted to sleep. Sertraline saved me. I've been on them for 1 year and they stopped me feeling screwed up on 50mg, but within a month, I was on 200mg which suits me. I feel relaxed and I don't stress at all. As long as my boys are okay and we have a home, then I'm happy. I was suicidal a year ago, laid in bed plotting my suicide. I cannot recommend them enough."
- Danie...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- January 16, 2020
Zoloft (sertraline) for Panic Disorder "Before taking this drug, I spent 2 weeks researching side effects as I was so nervous to take it. Let me just tell you that you will feel the side effects in the first 1-2 weeks (first week was awful) and I was only on 25mg. I kept reading reviews in hope that I just needed to stick it out. I AM SO THANKFUL that I did. I have been on 50mg for 3 weeks now, and every day feels better. I can talk to people, I feel calm, my heart doesn't race at 1,000 beats per minute anymore. I suffered from GAD, Panic disorder, depression, and social anxiety for years. It always impacted my relationships at home, at work, and I was finding it so hard to get through university. After years of never wanting to take ADs, I reached a point where I had suicidal ideations and ended up in the ED. Since then, I have not looked back, and I will keep taking this drug as long as I feel like this. THERE IS LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL I PROMISE!! I had no hope. I thought I would feel this way forever. GOOD LUCK"
Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.
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Zoloft (sertraline) for Panic Disorder "I’ve been having panic attacks/anxiety since I can remember. (I’m 27). About 3 years ago I couldn’t take it anymore. I quit drinking, quit drinking caffeine, and stopped smoking cigarettes. Nothing helped. In January of 2020, after trying about 7 different medications (at this point, I was terrified after so many failed attempts), I didn’t want to try anything else. Nothing seemed to help. So let me start by saying ZOLOFT SAVED MY LIFE. Let me say it again so the people in the back can hear: ZOLOFT SAVED MY LIFE. I feel like everything is so much brighter. I gained some weight, but that is minor compared to not having panic attacks for days on end. I’m on 50mg. I started very slowly which helped with the side effects. I started at 12.5mg, and after 3 days, bumped up to 25mg, and after a week, to 50mg. I couldn’t be happier and feel like for the first time, I have my life ahead of me. I would recommend this drug to anyone. It changed my life for the better."