Zoloft Withdrawal

Zoloft is the brand name for 'sertraline' or sertraline hydrochloride. It belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a type of depression medications. So, Zoloft along with other SSRIs are primarily used in the treatment of major depression in adults. Compared with tricyclic antidepressants, the side effects of SSRIs like Zoloft are usually less pronounced. Along with depression, sertraline or Zoloft is also employed for the treatment of panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and social anxiety disorders in both adults and children. Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are some other conditions for which Zoloft can be used. However, Zoloft can cause several side effects like many other antidepressants and its discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Discontinuing Zoloft

Its withdrawal symptoms can occur when the drug is discontinued abruptly or its dosage is reduced. The symptoms can appear within 1 to 10 days after reducing the dosage or complete withdrawal of the medication. But, usually these symptoms more commonly appear after a sudden discontinuation of the drug. These symptoms are more or less similar to the withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms associated with other SSRI drugs.

But, compared to many other SSRIs, the half-life of Zoloft is much shorter. In other words, the drug does not remain in the body for a long time, once it is discontinued. This is the reason why the withdrawal symptoms associated with this drug begin quickly. The half-life of Zoloft is about one day, which means that half of the drug would be metabolized by the body in one day. Usually, the withdrawal symptoms can begin within a day or two and can last for a few weeks. But, in some instances, the symptoms can reduce slowly over a period of time. In such a cases, the symptoms can take up to one month or more to subside completely.

Aftermath of Zoloft Discontinuation

The most common symptoms are, anxiety, agitation, irritability, light-headedness, muscle pain, tremors, nausea, headache, weakness or excessive tiredness, dizziness, confusion and insomnia. Apart from these, some individuals can experience vomiting, high fever, nightmare, seizures, hallucinations and abdominal discomfort, with sudden withdrawal of Zoloft.

Another common symptom of withdrawal is 'brain zap', which is described quite differently by different individuals. In general, the term is used by many to refer to an electric shock or jolt like sensation. In addition to this, some other possible symptoms of withdrawal are, aggression, poor concentration, tinnitus, flu like symptoms, stomach cramps and worsened or rebound depression. Many people also experience loss of appetite and weight loss or unexplained weight gain after discontinuing the use of Zoloft.

The withdrawal symptoms associated with Zoloft can gradually resolve on their own over a period of time. During this period, regular exercising along with following a balanced diet can help to alleviate, or at least reduce many of these symptoms. The best way to minimize them is to reduce the dosage of the medication gradually before finally discontinuing it. In spite of taking all possible care and caution, if the symptoms of withdrawal become intolerable or if you experience rebound depression, then it is better to take the help of your physician to deal with the condition.