Zoloft can improve the quality of life for people who suffer from depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and other conditions.Zoloft, also known as sertraline, is a drug used to treat depression.If you are taking Zoloft, you should work with your doctor and therapist to figure out a regimen that works for you.If you increase your dose, do it slowly under the supervision of your doctor.
Step 1: If you need to increase your dose, talk to your doctor.
A series of questions will be asked by your doctor to determine the effectiveness of your current prescription.You should answer each of the questions with as much detail as you can.You should come prepared to explain any side effects that you are experiencing.Sleeplessness and sleepiness are possible side effects of Zoloft.Discuss your health goals with your doctor.Are you hoping that increasing your Zoloft dosage will help you?If you would like to be less stressed out, tell your doctor.
Step 2: It's best to start at 25-50 percent of your body weight.
For adults suffering from depression, this is the standard dosage.When used in conjunction with therapy, this dosage can be used to eliminate some of the symptoms of depression.Your doctor and therapist will work together to come up with a regimen that works for you.A high dose can cause nausea and vomiting.Carefully follow your doctor's instructions.The starting dose for children between the ages of 6 and 12 is 25 grams per day.If you have problems with the bile duct, your doctor may start you on a lower dose.
Step 3: Zoloft should beDiluted before it is taken.
A glass has 4 ounces of juice, water, or ginger beer in it.If you want to add the exact amount of Zoloft into the liquid, you have to use a medicine dropper.Put it all together and drink.Reach out to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about the prescription.If you create this mix in advance, it could reduce the effectiveness of Zoloft.
Step 4: Evaluate your health progress after 24 weeks.
You should see a reduction in your symptoms as a result of taking Zoloft at this point.Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your treatment plan.It won't have time to fully work if you try to increase your dosage too close to start.Increasing your dosage on your own could result in serious health problems.Follow your doctor's instructions when adjusting your dose.
Step 5: Dosage should be increased at weekly intervals.
When you and your doctor agree that you need more Zoloft, it is important to increase your dose in a safe and controlled way.If you are already taking Zoloft, it will take a week for your body to adjust to more medication.When talking to your doctor, be candid about how you feel.The maximum increase that you can get per week is 50.You are at risk of experiencing side effects, such as rapid heartbeat, if you exceed this.
Step 6: You should stop at a maximum dose.
Your doctor will need to look at other options once you hit 200.If you are taking Zoloft for depression, this is the ceiling level of safety.Increasing your dosage above the ceiling can cause dangerous side effects.
Step 7: If you have premenstrual dysphoric disorder, you need to adjust your dosage.
This is a condition where a woman has physical and psychological symptoms during menstruation.Zoloft can be used to counter any thoughts of depression.If your symptoms get worse, the dosage could be boosted by 50 percent.You can have a discussion with your doctor about whether or not you should take Zoloft during your cycle.You may need to take an elevated dose of Zoloft for the first 3 days of your cycle.
Step 8: Look out for signs of change.
There are possible side effects of Zoloft.These feelings can happen when you are increasing your dose.If you experience these side effects, reach out to your doctor as soon as possible.Agitation includes everything from being unable to sit still to repeating the same thoughts over and over again.Zoloft's possible side effects include sweating, tremors, insomnia, tiredness, heart, dizziness, or worsening of depression symptoms.
Step 9: Zoloft should not be stopped without talking to your doctor.
It can take weeks for your symptoms to improve as a result of Zoloft.Try to be patient and communicate any concerns to your doctor during this time.Severe illness and withdrawal symptoms can occur when you stop your medication suddenly.Do not double-up with your next Zoloft dose if you miss a dose.If you missed it, just continue with your regular schedule.
Step 10: If you experience extreme symptoms, immediately seek medical attention.
It is possible that your body will react if you change your Zoloft dosage.You should call your doctor if you experience a seizure, blurred vision, headaches, or vomiting.Serotonin syndrome can be a sign of too much Zoloft in your system.You may experience a loss of coordination on your feet.If you begin to manifest these symptoms, don't drive.
Step 11: Before taking any supplements or drugs, talk with your doctor.
It is possible that these other products might affect the effectiveness of Zoloft.This is important if you are thinking about taking a product for depression or anxiety, as the ingredients lists could overlap with Zoloft, which could cause an overdose.NSAIDs can interact with Zoloft.They can reduce your ability to clot.
Step 12: You should add another drug to your Zoloft regimen.
If your symptoms are wide-ranging and you already have a maximum Zoloft dose, your doctor might consider a form of combination drug therapy.They will prescribe a drug similar to Zoloft or one in another category to boost the effectiveness of your medications.If you are taking Zoloft and may be suffering from depression caused by the thyroid, then a thyroid medication, such as Synthroid, could be prescribed.Zoloft's effectiveness can be improved by drugs, such as aripiprazole, without causing any additional side effects.
Step 13: If you have any symptoms of mental illness, contact a therapist.
Raising your Zoloft dosage over time may not be enough if you are suffering from anxiety or depression.If you want to combine behavioral and lifestyle examination with psychopharmacology, you should ask your primary care physician to recommend a therapist.Zoloft can relieve some of the anxiety of a child with a learning disability.It is possible to discuss their school environment with a therapist.The approach is referred to as treating the whole person.