New Here, Need Advice TY

Hi there. I'm new here. I suffer from anxiety and depression and have also been diagnosed with OCD and a Mood Disorder---(not sure what they want to call it) I hadnt been able to manage my symptoms until Zoloft was introduced to my life And I've been on it for about 5 or 6 years. Since the time I was taking it, I had found myself to be much happier, able to control my racing anxious thoughts better, less irritability and tiredness, and more mental clarity. I could finally feel normal like I wasn't so freaked out by everything. It was great. However all was good until I recently had to go see a psychiatrist again because I was feeling like zoloft wasn't as effective as it was before. Has anyone else experienced a weakening effect of Zoloft after prolonged use? I joined this forum because I have recently had to go get prescribed new meds to help with my restless depressed tired mood again. I felt like I wasn't getting the great benefits that I once had with Zoloft. So my doc prescribed me 75mg of Wellbutrin (Bupropion generic) to take along with my Zoloft but I normally take 200mg now she reduced it to 150mg. She wants to see if it'll help with my memory and concentration. I told her that I have a hard time trying to focus lately at work and even on simple tasks. I have anxiety and panic attacks which I've noticed is worse in social situations. I also said that I feel less aware of what's happening around me, and lack of motivation and I get frequent headaches So, she also prescribed me propranolol 10mg to take twice daily as needed for anxiety. does anyone have any experience with taking bupropion with Zoloft and also propranolol for anxiety...I've been on bupropion for 2 days, noticed I get nauseous if I take bupropion on an empty stomach And I also have had a couple weird sharp pains near my heart...but I also have had that happen before when I get anxiety attacks. So not sure if it's the pill or my anxiety causing it...also my anxiety seems to be worse on this new pill, I'll have to see if it goes away with time.... But I was just hoping someone might be going through the same thing I am and can share their experience with these pills...or something similar. Thanks for taking the time to read my lengthy story.

Hi MK and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of the return of your symptoms recently. Unfortunately, a loss of efficacy ('poop out') of a previously well performing med is not unusual after a few years...for unknown reasons.

The good news is that you are working with a P-doc...the most knowledgeable doctor regarding making an adjustment in your treatment plan!

The addition of Wellbutrin to your SSRI is a well known one. Add-ons such as Wellbutrin can be a positive change up to cover where the Zoloft is currently leaving you vulnerable.

The beta blocker (Propanolol) will help relieve the physical sensations that go along with the social anxiety...and hopefully stop the panic before it can take hold.

The start up effects...and possibly some challenges from stepping down the Zoloft will even themselves out with time.

Do you have therapy or self help tools to use during this transition?

If you need some...check out our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great ideas.

Keep us posted on your progress...and we will keep you in support. We understand, care and are here to listen and encourage anytime!

Peace and progress,

Scaredy Cat

Hi

Welcome to the forum I am pleased you have found us but sorry to hear you have been dealing with anxiety and depression.

Unfortunately it seems to be the norm for antidepressants to poop out after a certain number of years so it is common now for doctors to add on an other medication or to change you to a new one.

Any change or add on will cause your symptoms to be worse in the short term whilst you adjust to your new medication so it can be a turbulent few weeks but stick with it if you can and you should start to see some improvement. If you don't you need to go back and speak with your doctor.

Keep us posted.

Hibee

Hey there Hibee and Sarakt !

Thanks for your responses. I'm trying to get through this as best as I can, but I'm so happy to have found this support group. I am going to stick it out til I see my doc next and see if there is any improvements. And as said, it's normal to experience the worsening symptoms before it gets better...hopefully it won't take too long ....😊 If it does I'll do my best not to give up. I'll keep ya'll updated.

Sounds like a plan and yes keep us posted.

Deb, my wife has been on prozac over 30 years, it's still working, Peace

Larry ***