Starting on Low Dose Zoloft? - Panic Disorders Message Board

SuNewG · 06-18-2003, 02:11 PM

Well, I just came back from the 6Th doc that says
I probably should start on some Zoloft for Anxiety/Panic. I am scared to take anything, but I have to do something. They all say OK to start on
12 mg for a few weeks then go up from there. Has
anyone here started on that low dose. Should the side effects be lower and does EVERYONE get side effects???Thanks

ChrisL · 06-18-2003, 02:53 PM

I'm in the same boat....afraid to start on paxil.
not looking forward to POSSIBLE weight gain/loss, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, etc. I just got off the phone with my dr. and he said that starting with a lower dosage will minimize side effects. The key is making it through the first few weeks. I threw in the towel too early the first time I took paxil, and opted for the benzos, but I got addicted to the benzos and they were essentially ineffective after awhile. Good Luck, and try to stay away from all of the negative forums out there. SSRI's have worked for MILLIONS of people. I have three really close friends that were on either Zoloft and Paxil for a year. It helped them tremendously, and when they quit (gradually), they didn't suffer through all these terrible withdrawal symptoms you might read about.

Janik · 06-18-2003, 04:13 PM

I experienced side effects and withdrawal with Zoloft, but that does not mean everyone does. My father was very happy taking 25 mg.

So go ahead and try it, it might help you, and if it doesn't you can try other meds. I suggest you try therapy too. In my case it was very helpful.

hry33 · 06-18-2003, 05:09 PM

the smallest effective dose is 50 but you can start with less and gradually work your way up, not everyone has side effects