Posted by petey on December 11, 2001, at 4:24:58
In reply to Re: shedding a little light, posted by DMC on December 10, 2001, at 23:06:09
> I've dosed on 50mg/day for 3 years. I knew without a doubt that I was experiencing extreme withdrawal the first time I missed my dosage for two consecutive days. I mentioned this to several doctors who all said Zoloft is non-addictive. That is complete nonsense. Zoloft is a very powerful brain altering chemical, and obviously it follows that the brain will react to its absence after discontinuing its use.
> Okay, while I once felt very positive toward zoloft, and acknowledge it helped me in a difficult time, I also feel that I should have stopped taking it a long time ago. I blame it now for fatigue, low sex drive (that's a cause for depression righ there, cause what a joy to get it back!) Anyway, just to let all of you know, I experienced severe and dibilitating brain sizzles, and dizziness when I tried to go cold turkey. It felt like I was being sucked out of my consciousness by a river and jolted back several times an hour.
> Six weeks ago, I went to one 50mg every third day. I felt rough for the first 6 days, a little better from 6-12, a little better from 12-24 and went cold turkey after about 5 weeks of one every third day.
> I've been cold turkey for 10 days now. I have noticed very mild and infrequent "zapping" and dizziness, but it is tolerable. I have had a mildly upset stomach as well. My insomnia is the most annoying symptom, yet I can handle that temporarily.
>
> Oddly, I have a cold for the first time in about two years, and feel that its related to my withdrawal.
>
> Bottom line is Zoloft is powerful, and should be used with discretion. I don't believe it should be used long-term, but I understand it my be the only solution for some people.
>
> I suggest weaning, but not forever, at some point you have to bear a little discomfort. Just realize that it is only temporary. Don't be frightened, just march forward knowing its not you, but the drugs that are causing the discomfort.
>
> Thanks to all the other posts, that have shed light on these symptoms. For me, the withdrawal was a more alarming response than the psychological discomfort that led me to go on Zoloft. I hope the medical community continues to address this problem, although I imagine there is an active force in the industry trying to sweep this reality under the rug. That, more than anything is what makes me want to stop using this drug. It's a real shame that these companies profit so much from illness. I can honestly say that I have felt pressure to continue using this drug from the medical community. That is how I know I'm better without it.
>
> Good luck to all the others who feel that the drug has done its job, and that its time to move on in the drug free consciousness. God Bless.I am now about 4 weeks Zoloft free. I am experiencing extreme fatigue and insomnia. Do you think this could still be due to withdrawal? I am only getting 3-4hrs. of sleep per night and it's really starting to take it's toll on me. It's hard to tell withdrawal from the symptoms of depression! I am so confused on what to do because it seems every med. that I take, brings on a whole new set of side-effects. It really scares me to try something else especially if this could possibly still be withdrawal. How long did it take for your withdrawal to end? What were your symptoms? I still feel somewhat emotionally blunted, but that ia getting a little better everyday. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! God bless,
Petey
poster:petey
thread:5582
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20011202/msgs/86539.html