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Questions on panic disorder medication

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Posted 7/14/2015 1:16 AM (GMT 0)
Hello guys,

Today I went to see a doctor and she prescribed me Zoloft (50 mg) and Klonopin (0.5 mg).

My question is what can I expect from taking Zoloft for the first time? Doctor told me I should take it daily and should start seeing some changes in a month or two but I'm just scared that I might get a panic attack like side effect once I start taking it since I've heard some people say they've experienced it. Is there a high possibility that I might experience some side effects as a first time user?

Also, from my understanding Klonopin should be only taken if I'm having a severe panic attack, correct?

Thank you in advance.
Posted 7/14/2015 1:27 AM (GMT 0)
Hi marlbest, Yes when starting an AD such as zoloft it isn't abnormal for things to get worse before they get better. You might get side effects and I say might , cause I don't get side effects when starting or stopping meds, so therefore don't let all the stories scare you as some people are just lucky that way.

However, it is very normal for things like increased anxiety, upset stomach and such to appear. The good news is the side effects should only last up to 2 or 3 weeks at most, if they last longer then that or if they are so bad you can't stand it then call your doctor.

It does take a full 6 to 8 weeks to reach full potential of the medicine, so sticking with it if you can to reach the full potential should have you feeling much better.

Also, yes unless your dr prescribed the Klonopin to take so many a day, they should be reserved for when you are having an anxiety or panic attack.

I wish you all the best in your start up, if you have any more questions or concerns or just need support during the start up phase please don't hesitate to post.
Posted 7/14/2015 1:54 AM (GMT 0)
There are several threads here that follow a member's experience when starting Zoloft. You might check them out. I always have some side effects of meds, but I've never been on Zoloft.

As far as Klonopin, I'm on it twice a day. It is usually more of a long lasting med, unlike Xanax or valium. It works best when you keep a steady dose in your system. Hence the twice a day (every 12 hours) schedule. I'm prescribed 1mg twice a day, but have cut them in half, and am doing the .5.

I wish I'd had them a year ago. Especially starting my Lexapro. It would have made my life so much easier. If you have any questions about how to take it, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Good luck!
Posted 7/14/2015 3:34 AM (GMT 0)
MB,

Can't really add anything to the above except my encouragement to use your coping skills during this time to make as smooth a transition as possible...

...and my wishes for a really successful start up and Rx regimen!

Keep us posted.:)

S.C.
Posted 7/14/2015 3:42 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you AngelLisa and Jake's Mom as always :)
Posted 7/14/2015 3:44 AM (GMT 0)

Scaredy Cat said...
MB,

Can't really add anything to the above except my encouragement to use your coping skills during this time to make as smooth a transition as possible...

...and my wishes for a really successful start up and Rx regimen!

Keep us posted.:)

S.C.

Thank you Cat :)

I will try my best with my coping skills!
Posted 7/14/2015 9:24 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Unfortunately it does seem to the norm when starting any AD that you will experience some side effects and may see an increase in your anxiety to begin with but things normally settle after a couple of weeks and the side effects lesson but if they don't you need to go back and speak with your doctor.

Your doctor is right it can take anywhere between 6-8 weeks before the full benefits can be seen but we all react differently to medication and what works well for on e person may not work well for an other. It's important to remember that medication will only help ease your symptoms so it is best to combine them with talking therapy.

Keep us posted and I hope this med works well for you.


Hibee
Posted 7/15/2015 12:53 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you Hibee.

Today I took my very first Zoloft (50 mg) and I felt the drowsiness but that was it. It almost felt like I've had a half cup of Nyquil but other than that, I felt good. I hope there won't be any new side effect tomorrow morning!
Posted 7/15/2015 1:04 AM (GMT 0)
Good job! You are on the road to recovery!
Posted 7/15/2015 8:51 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Sounds like you are getting used to the medication which is good news I hope it works well for you.

Keep us posted.

Hibee
Posted 7/15/2015 3:58 PM (GMT 0)
MB,

May it continue to go well for you! Being aware of the possiblilites with an Rx start up...and yet not anticipating anything but positive things is a good place to be!

Keep us posted.:)

S.C.
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