Just went through another anxiety attack....questions on zoloft please look... - Panic Disorders Message Board

468LC · 08-22-2004, 08:22 PM

I started zoloft last week at what may appear to be a fairly high dose to start out on. 100mg. Is that a lot?

I have been even more anxous with the zoloft then I think without it.

I skipped one yesterday and I felt pretty good only needing a couple of xanax.

I then took another zoloft today and felt good for half the day and then the anxiety started coming on strong. I lost it about an hour ago and am just now settling down.

I think I am ok now.

What do you guys think, should I lower the dose down to 50 or even 25 for a few weeks.

I will call my doctor in the morning.

Thanks
Steve

IMdizzy2 · 08-22-2004, 08:45 PM

It's been awhile since I took Zoloft, but I remember having the exact same reaction. I was also started on 100mg and told my doctor about my anxiety. He lowered the dose. The trick with any medication is that no one person's metabolism is the same so, you may need a lower dose because your body can't process that much quickly enough. It seems that your weight should be a consideration in determining how much you need, but I could be wrong. Anyway, I did do better with a lower dose and I hope the same is true for you. Best of luck!

468LC · 08-22-2004, 08:50 PM

Thanks for the super quick response.

I am still a little wound up. Chest pains and hot flushes. Man I know I need to relax.

I had a bunch of tests done last week and I swear I think I am gonna be wigged out until I hear back. Although my heart has been checked twice in the last week with 4 EKGs and they say I am fine lol. I am still a nervous wreck.

IMdizzy2 · 08-22-2004, 09:10 PM

I truly do empathize. I have had this problem all my life...I remember hyper-ventalating as a very young child. Back then there was no name for this, of course, and my parents just said I was too 'sensitive' or high-strung'. Yeah, that really helped! Anyway, what helps me is to concentrate on holding my shoulders back and relaxing my diaphram. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth (sometimes I put a paper bag over my nose and mouth and do this a few times). I take small sips of water as I pace and talk....even if no-one is there! I know, it sounds crazy, but it really helps me to vocalize what I'm feeling and even give myself calming advice out loud....I think this works because it takes those fears out of your head and gives them a name. I hope something I've said can help you out in the future...it's just stuff I've learned to do to cope.

468LC · 08-22-2004, 09:24 PM

I'm sure it is due to too much zoloft as a starting dose. Thinking back on the situation I had these same simptoms last saturday when I took my very first zoloft. Now after skipping yesterday and then taking a 100mg thismorning it has caught up to me now. I am going to take like 25 instead of a 100 in the morning.