What Causes Confusion And Tiredness While On Sertraline?

Posted on Fri, 24 Jun 2016

Question: My psych started me on 100 mg sertraline , while I'm been still going for walks daily, doing household stuff, shopping, lunch with friends etc I find the mornings difficult with confusing thoughts, tiredness etc. I have used it one before and found it kicked in after a week. What's your view? I do need to get functioning a XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (46 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Dose adjustment needed.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to HCM.
I can understand your concerns.

Has this confusion and tiredness developed after starting sertraline?
If yes, then dose reduction should be considered.

If these complaints were present prior to starting sertraline and are still persisting, then dose increment can be considered.

History of good response to sertraline is a favorable factor. Sertraline should work for you now also.

Kindly discuss this with your doctor.
Hope this helps.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shubham Mehta (2 hours later)

Hi, thanks for the advice. I have only started on the sertraline last Saturday, 2 days at 50mg then up to 100mg. So anticipate some rough days so to speak. I also have some Alepam 30mg which I take half as needed. I've only taken 3 halves in the week.
From memory the major side effects seemed to diminish after 5-7 days but it is hard to recall.
I think the strategy is to reach the therapeutic dose quickly, maintain for 3-4 months then try a slow taper.
My psych is away for a while as is my GP.
It's funny the way the mood seems to change around midday.
My aim tomorrow is to go and exercise as soon as I awake(if I can)as I think that helps.

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Continue with the same regime.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again.
Sorry for late response.

I think your strategy is good enough.
Your symptoms of tiredness and confusing thoughts should disappear as the therapeutic levels of sertraline are achieved.

Please stick to the course which you are on.

I wish you well.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shubham Mehta (1 hour later)

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome.

Detailed Answer:
You are most welcome.

Kindly close the discussion and give your valuable feedback.

Regards.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar