How good is Zoloft for anxiety?
Aside from its ability to improve the symptoms of depression, studies have shown that Zoloft significantly reduces¹ anxiety symptoms. Importantly, this research also showed that Zoloft is still an effective treatment for depression and anxiety regardless of any other psychiatric conditions.
by Drugs.com
The initial effects may begin within the first 1 to 2 weeks of treatment. Some patients may require a longer time period. Other uses for Zoloft, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may take up to 12 weeks of continuous treatment.
Zoloft has an average rating of 6.7 out of 10 from a total of 125 reviews for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. 55% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 26% reported a negative experience.
Common side effects during the first week or two of taking Zoloft include nausea, headache, fatigue, and constipation. These side effects should go away once your body gets used to the medication. If you continue to have side effects after a few weeks or experience any serious side effects, call your doctor or 911.
Lexapro was shown in clinical studies to be significantly more effective than placebo in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Antidepressants such as Prozac and Zoloft offer relief for over 100 million people around the world who have depression, but with a potentially serious side effect. In the first few weeks, feelings of fear and anxiety can get worse.
When taken correctly, Zoloft can make people feel less anxious or fearful, and it can reduce the urge to perform repeated tasks. It can improve sleep quality, appetite, energy levels, restore interest in daily life, and reduce unwanted thoughts and panic attacks.
I have been on sertraline on and off the last few years for anxiety. I started on 50mg and after a month or so I noticed a huge change, I felt myself again. Positive, happy without the intrusive thoughts and overthinking. It was such a relief and I started to enjoy my life and my work again!
“Your sertraline is working if you feel calmer. Your negative moods or anxiety will not be as intense. You should be enjoying activities more. And your sleeping and eating habits should be more stable,” says Doughty.
As an SSRI, Zoloft blocks the reabsorption, or uptake, of serotonin in the brain, leaving more of the chemical available. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that, among other responsibilities, helps regulate your mood, learning, and memory.
What are the negative effects of Zoloft?
Nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, loss of appetite, increased sweating, diarrhea, upset stomach, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
References
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312537
- https://healthmatch.io/anxiety/zoloft-for-anxiety
- https://perks.optum.com/blog/how-know-if-your-sertraline-prescription-working/
- https://perks.optum.com/blog/what-to-expect-during-your-first-week-on-zoloft/
- https://www.drugs.com/comments/sertraline/zoloft-for-major-depressive-disorder.html
- https://www.singlecare.com/blog/zoloft-side-effects-first-week/
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-35/zoloft-oral/details
- https://www.iwantgreatcare.org/genericmedicines/sertraline?&all=1&page=3
- https://www.verywellmind.com/zoloft-sertraline-2584329
- https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/long-zoloft-sertraline-work-3565128/
- https://www.singlecare.com/blog/lexapro-vs-zoloft/