Anonymous asked this question on 4/19/2000:
I've been taking Zoloft for almost seven years. When I try to go without it symptoms make my life miserable and I go back on...however, lately I think it's not working - I have running thoughts at night, when I should be sleeping, and I have a more flat affect during the day. I'm frightened. I imagine the zoloft's effectiveness is wearing out, that my body's system has grown too used to it - NOW WHAT?!
survivor66 gave this response on 4/20/2000:
It is possible for your body at anytime to change the way it reacts towards a medication you have been taking for a long time due to chemical changes, hormone changes, and stress in our life. The good news is Zoloft is just one of many drugs in a specific class of drugs referred to selective seratonin reuptake inhibitors. If you feel Zoloft is not working any longer a simple increase in dose can make the difference or ask your physician about one of the other drugs in the same class as Zoloft. You could also add on another antidepressant to supplement the Zoloft. Also, think of your present situation and see if you have changed anything in your diet, is there more stress in your life right now. Don't be concerned if you feel it is no longer working because there are numerous alternatives and one of them will work for you. Often just taking a break off the zoloft and trying something else for awhile and then returning to Zoloft will solve the problem. Discuss all these options with your doctor. You may have a hormonal change that may indicate that there is something happening (a change in life) to your body affecting the Zoloft. Have your Doctor check thyroid levels, and other blood chemicals to rule out any fluctuations. There is an answer and it may take a while to find it. Believe me this is not permanent and the most important thing you can do right now is see your Doctor for a physical to rule out any chemical changes that may be affecting the Zoloft. Often over the counter drugs, foods, and stress will affect how the Zoloft works. Be sure to make a list and discuss everything with your doctor to find the solution. You will find it. Sincerely Survivor66
The average rating for this answer is 5.
Anonymous rated this answer a 5.
Thank you for a quick, informative, hopeful answer. Thank you so much.