Switching from sertraline to escitalopram

[PzSu]

Hi, has anyone switched over from sertraline to escitalopram and has it gone well. My GP has said to change as sertraline has caused diarrhoea that hasn't gone. I'm just a bit worried about side effects of a switch but really hoping this does the trick. If anyone has similar experiences would love some encouragement. Thanks.

[Jessicawarriner]

Hi

Sertraline made me feel awful horrible medication I don’t no anyone who who it has worked for long term really

I have done exactly what u have done it’s nothing to worry about switching the escitalopram is so much better I still get loose stools but in the morning once only I am almost finished my first box of this tablets and still get some headaches but I put it down to settling in but I would rather have that than the constant anxiety really I get no other side effects from it just a lot calmer I did get chest pain to start with and not sleeping but it gets a lot better I sleep like a baby now loads of sleep it’s worth it this one is so much better then the sertraline trust me I have made the switch and it’s work it takes time and u get some headaches but just put up with it for a bit

[PzSu in reply to Jessicawarriner]

Thanks for replying, so did you have the problem not sleeping came back when you switched over as I have got to a point where i'm sleeping pretty well and the insomnia was exhausting.

[Jessicawarriner in reply to PzSu]

Yes I had no sleep for the first 2 weeks and now it’s back to normal I just get headaches and that’s it really now I am hoping they will go with time as it’s only week 3 at the moment I am asking the gp today as have a review

[PzSu in reply to Jessicawarriner]

Thanks, I'm still dithering about what to do. I hope keep doing well and the headaches go too.

[MrRigatoni]

Tip keep a diary of any underlying symptoms conditions things happen.

Both meds are a long list of side effects sorry to tell you.

Also even this needs to be evaluated look at diet nutrition to cope side effects.

Mentioned bowel problems that is common always look at yoghurt with added cultures if you nor lactose intolerant.

Just some useful knowledge always plenty fruit veggies whole grains and be sensible.

If you eat a balanced practical diet make notes any symptoms then hopefully be OK.

Education always a good idea some research guidance plenty on line to consider.

Alternative therapies lifestyles any other options do you need support with this from MH charities.

Do you think by accessing other support can this be beneficial to your recovery and make you more understanding how you mind works.

Body physical is important too recognise the issues and consider next steps.

On going may be but the most number one person is you and this finding the methods ways plans schemes to move and deal with anything.

If you live UK.

These three charities help you do a lot much more than making sure the recovery becomes a factor.

Offer floating support advice, guidance information, benefits, welfare and anything else.

richmondfellowship.org.uk

mind.org.uk

rethink.org

Please if you do not live UK worth looking local community mental health.

Please if you have any question need to ask me anything please do.

Long term mental health experience expertise qualifications . Volunteering in mental health charities been clientele as well.

Have disability and addiction history anxiety depression.

Addiction clean sorted advice guidance on any thing like that. Wealth knowledge.

Wishing you well.

Please take care

[PzSu in reply to MrRigatoni]

Thanks, yes I can see that both have side effects that look similar. I am trying to use all other methods and hope the side effects particular diarrhoea goes away as it is getting better and the sertraline is working ok for my low mood. Exercise is so important and nutritious food.

[MrRigatoni in reply to PzSu]

Hello thank you for reply sorry late one missed this.

Hopefully anything suggested helps.

To replace lost fluids bacteria use natural Greek Yoghurt with added cultures this helps.

Along with water.

Add to fruit with honey some Cinnamon if you wish to.

I am sorry to hear the side effects distressing you please if I can be supportive .

Happy to be listening.

Pleasure to meet you.

[mydogs in reply to PzSu]

Dear pzSu I have messaged you,about sertraline Did the diarrhoea start as soon as you started taking it,I am at my lowest point I am a older person and have been on Sertraline for 5 days and had constant diarrhoea also so nauseous I can’t eat and this is making me weak,I can’t sleep and this is really starting to pull me down my Dr said to give them a chance but I don’t think I can suffer this much longer how long did you take them before you felt better thank you.

[Jessicawarriner in reply to mydogs]

I was on them for 5 days and it was the worst thing I could have done I felt so uncomfortable on It I had to make the switch I find esctalapram to be a lot better plays on my nerves tho but I would rather that than the sickness etc gave me funny eyes as well so when I came Inside from outside it felt funny

[PzSu in reply to mydogs]

Hi

I found the diarrhoea didn't get better and switched to escitalopram which I now find better although still adjusting to it.

The nausea wore off though on sertraline and it was effective.

To settle my guts down I ended up taking loperamide for almost a week on GPS advice. I was also prescribed a sleeping pill which I took occasionally to get a better sleep.

The diarrhoea really got to me and I lost so much weight that I eventually switched and am glad I did. It was an easy switch.

[mydogs in reply to PzSu]

Thank you for responding can I Message you please would like to ask you something .

[PzSu in reply to mydogs]

Yes of course and sorry didn't see th be first message before.