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Is Apo-Sertraline really worth taking?

By Anonymous January 14, 2010 - 4:37pm
 
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I've been on this medication for quite some time now and I've noticed a difference in my mood and anxiety. But after researching the side effects and having my mom totally against me taking this drug I am considering if I should really stay on it. I was really wondering if there is any natural or self-medications I can look for that will help my anxiety. I know Apo-Sertraline is helping me now but I am worried about the long-term effects it may have on my body.

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Anonymous

Thank you so much for your reply, it was helpful
It was prescribed by my doctor and I discussed with her how both my mother and I were iffy about putting me of this drug. She reassured me that it is not addictive but never mentioned that I would only be on it for a short period of time, but I guess I will talk to her about it when I go to re-new my prescription. I haven't really talked to my doctor about any natural drugs I can take to help my anxiety but my mom wants me to go see a naturopathic doctor.
My mom definately feels that I was put on this drug too fast but I trusted my doctor. I'm just confused on whether I should keep taking it or not. I know it's bad to stop a medication suddenly but do you think it's possible to wean myself from them? I guess I should just make an appointment with my doctor and talk to her about this but I like to avoid the doctors office .. haha.
Anyways, thanks again for your feedback Pat!

January 14, 2010 - 8:40pm
Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger

Hi Anon - Apo-Sertraline is a brand name for the drug sertraline hydrochloride which is also sold under the names Zoloft and Lustral. This is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It's mainly used to treat major depression in adults, but is also used to treat obsessiveā€“compulsive, panic, and social anxiety disorders in both adults and children.

Was this drug prescribed by a physician or psychiatrist? Have you discussed your concerns with your health care provider? I'm asking for two reasons. First, some patients are treated for a short period of time and then no longer need this medication. This is not a determination that most people can make on their own and should be made in conjunction with a qualified professional. Second, if you have been taking this drug for some time it would be in your best interest to develop an appropriate plan for withdrawing this drug from your system.

There are many natural resources available to you to deal with anxiety, but before you explore those options it would be best to first be sure, through a medical consultation, if you have anxiety at a level that would require medical treatment or not. If you do, there are other treatment options available to you, including other medications, counseling, behavioral therapy and more. If you don't need this medication, then an appropriate withdrawal plan should be developed for you, along with provision of resources to support you in moving forward with your life.

Does this make sense to you? Would you be comfortable talking about what I've said with your mom? Will you let us know what you decide to do? We wish you the best, and congratulate you for your interest in taking charge of your medications and your own health. Take care, Pat

January 14, 2010 - 7:33pm
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