Begin with the prescribed 25mg dose daily. Take it at the same time each day, preferably in the morning, with or without food. This consistency helps maintain stable blood levels.
Your doctor will monitor your progress and may adjust the dosage based on your response. Increases are typically gradual, often by 25mg increments every few weeks. Don’t adjust your dose without consulting your physician.
| Increase to 50mg | 2-4 weeks | Increased nausea, sleepiness, or anxiety (usually temporary) |
| Further increases (beyond 50mg) | As directed by your doctor; often 2-4 week intervals | Consult your physician regarding potential side effects. |
Stopping Sertraline requires a gradual tapering, never abruptly ceasing treatment. Your doctor will create a personalized tapering schedule to minimize withdrawal symptoms. This often involves a slow decrease in dosage over several weeks or months. Common withdrawal symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Report any concerning side effects or lack of improvement to your doctor promptly. Open communication with your healthcare provider is vital throughout the entire process.
