Increasing dose sertraline - side effects?

[Ren2]

So since Monday I doubled my dose of sertraline from 25 to 50 mg. When I started on 25mg two weeks ago I felt bad for the first few days and then that disappeared. But since yesterday my anxiety and symptoms got worse again and I am really nauseous. Is it normal to have increased symptoms/side effects when you increase the dose?

[Jen8882]

Hey Ren,

I’m sorry your experiencing this nausea, it’s the worst when you first start out with these drugs and start to get these nasty side effects. I found it took at least two months for my mood to stablizie after first taking Sertrsline. The Nauseau is the worst when you start and then it gets manageable after two months- just be sure to always take your dosage with a full stomach. Everyone is different though and it can’t take trial and error before you find a dosage/type of ssri that works for you.

Keep a log for yourself if you haven’t already started one and keep track of your symptoms.

Also be careful of mixing alcohol (if you do drink) with the drug. It can make you very sick if you over do it and worsen the anxiety (it did for me at least).

Best of luck, it’s tricky to navigate the world of SSRI’s! Keep track of how your feeling every day and give it a month to test out at least before making any decisions.

[Ren2 in reply to Jen8882]

Thanks

[An_Ckd]

Ren2, Yes it is very common to experience side effects any time the dosages are increased or when you start new medications. If the side effects are impacting your ability to function, then I would consult with your medical provider. If the side effects are mild headaches or nausea, then I would give it a few days for your brain to adjust to the chemicals. Within a week or so, your side effects should subdue. I hope you start to feel better and find the right medication/dosage of medication for you. Don't be discouraged!

[Ren2 in reply to An_Ckd]

Thanks