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View Full Version : Zoloft Side Effects



klove18
05-22-2013, 10:58 PM
I've been on 100mg of Zoloft (Sertraline) for the past 7, almost 8 months. In those months I have noticed several side effects:

-weight gain (about 15-20lbs. Most doctors say Zoloft doesn't do that but all the other research I've done points to that generalization).
-memory loss (as someone who has always had a great memory, I seem to be having a lot of "Did I already ask/do this?" type of moments. Maybe that's just me getting older but I'm only 24).
-difficulty concentrating/foggy moments (as a graduate student this is very inconvenient).
-heartburn (very painful. Even prescription prilosec cannot always help it).
-excessive tiredness (never used to take naps, used to stay up late and get up early. Now I can sleep until 12pm, go to bed at 9pm and take a 3-4hr nap in the afternoon).
-vision problems (blurry, sometimes unable to focus).
-very vivid and realistic dreams

First I just want to make sure that these side effects are common in other Zoloft users; because if not then I really have a problem. But more importantly I want to know if these side effects will subside if/when I decide to stop Zoloft. I do think the Zoloft has helped me. I had terrible anxiety accompanied with panic attacks and mild depression. My depression and panic attacks are pretty much nonexistent now. My anxiety, however, still comes and goes. I'm not sure how long I will be on zoloft but I do want to know if this gets better. I would love to hear about some positive experiences from others. Thanks in advance!

janey
05-24-2013, 12:30 PM
I take Zoloft (only 50mg), and I haven't really experienced too many side effects other than vivid dreams (which may or may not be related), minor headaches and foggy moments. Zoloft may have caused me to lose a few pounds, but not noticeably much. I actually wish I'd gain weight from Zoloft. Also, my anxiety, mood swings, and depression still come and go too (especially around my time of the month like now). But given that, it's less extreme and more manageable most times. I've definitely had a positive experience with Zoloft.

I have, however, heard of people experiencing those side effects you describe, especially the weight gain, tiredness and memory loss. Most seem to be normal.
You will have to think if the pros outweigh the cons, otherwise it might not be the right medication for you.

Oh yes, and Zoloft gave me really bad insomnia when I first started taking it and now I take a Xanax to help with sleep.