How to Take Zoloft Safely

Your doctor diagnoses depression and suggests that an antidepressant might help. But you take a look at the medication handout given to you with the prescription, and it seems like Zoloft can produce every possible side effect ever known. Take a deep breath--it's a medication that can be used very safely.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Realize that one of the advantages of medications like Zoloft is that if a patient is NOT depressed, he probably will experience no effect, unlike "tranquilizers," which slow down anyone taking them.

2. Realize that another of the advantages of medications like Zoloft is that they are not addictive. They should not be discontinued precipitously, but they do not produce drug dependence.

3. Begin the medication at the dose prescribed by your doctor. If a small dose is started, such as 25 mg, and is to be taken for a period of time and then increased, say to 50 mg, don't increase the dose if you have ANY side effects.

4. Notify your physician if you have side effects, whether or not they are listed and whether or not they have been discussed. Your personal doctor knows you better than anyone else and is better equipped to discuss side effects.

5. Take Zoloft at the same time every day. It may be taken without regard to meals.

6. Continue on your daily dose until your next medical appointment. Before that appointment, list your feelings about the drug. During the appointment, be explicitly honest--this is the only way you and your doctor can evaluate your treatment.

Resources

• The complete pharmaceutical insert for Zoloft
• FDA Zoloft information

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