We all know that the appearance of problems usually brings more than one headache. For example, in some cases a person may be going through a difficult time as a result of having received painful news that has caused a series of symptoms such as a lack of will to carry out their projects or excessive worries about life, among others. . In general terms, problems require solutions to prevent the discomfort the person feels from worsening. Given the persistence of these manifestations, one of the most considered options is the provision of psychiatric medications due to the positive effects they cause on thoughts, body and behaviors. In turn, the intake of psychotropic drugs leads to beneficial changes in a person’s life, as long as some specific parameters are followed.
In this Psychology-Online article we will explain the side effects of stopping taking sertraline.
What effect does sertraline have on the brain?
First of all, we must start by understanding the functionality of sertraline. This drug is used for alleviate the symptoms of depressive symptoms, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, among others. Although sertraline is considered an antidepressant medication, its scope allows it to be administered in other mental health disorders.
When sertraline enters the central nervous system, it produces a increased levels of a hormone called serotonin, linked to the feeling of happiness, joy and emotional regulation. In this sense, this antidepressant blocks the reabsorption of serotonin in the body, which results in an increase in this neurotransmitter.
Likewise, the benefits of sertraline in the brain are also reflected in greater mental control in everyday life situations. In this article you will find more information about the
How to stop taking sertraline
In the event that a person wishes to stop taking sertraline, they should follow a series of steps to avoid unfavorable consequences. Here’s how to safely stop taking sertraline:
- First of all, it is important to keep in mind that before making the decision to discontinue psychiatric treatment you should always consult with a mental health professionalwho will be in charge of evaluating each particular case and indicating recommendations and guidelines to follow.
- In most cases, it will be suggested gradually lower the dose supplied to avoid relapses of clinical conditions and side effects.
- In general terms, the withdrawal of the psychotropic drug should be carried out gradually every week. in doses of 25 milligrams. In other words, during the same week the same amount of sertraline should be administered and then reduce its consumption until it ends.
What effects can stopping taking sertraline cause?
In relation to the above, the sudden withdrawal of sertraline may cause certain discomfort in the emotional, physical and behavioral aspects. In these cases, being clear about possible withdrawal symptoms could prevent greater obstacles from occurring when stopping consumption.
Below we show you the main effects that stopping taking sertraline can cause:
- Alterations in mood.
- .
- Discomfort in the abdomen.
- Palpitations.
- Fatigue.
- Weight gain.
- Insomnia.
- Dry mouth.
- Nervousness.
In the event that these effects make it impossible to carry out daily life or represent a risk to the person or third parties, it is essential go to a mental health center so that the person can be cared for by specialized professionals.
How long does sertraline withdrawal last?
Although each organism has qualities that differentiate it from others, it is possible to establish a common criterion among the majority of people who discontinue sertraline consumption. In these cases, it is estimated that sertraline withdrawal syndrome may arise as a consequence of the physical need that a person may feel to resume taking it.
However, this period may have a Approximate duration of one or two weeks starting on the third day after discontinuing this antidepressant. Beyond this condition, sertraline withdrawal syndrome does not usually represent a major inconvenience, since it is a normal process that occurs in most antidepressant medications.
However, in the event that sertraline withdrawal syndrome causes major problems, it is recommended make a medical consultation in order to rule out other factors that affect the situation.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- Chávez-León, E., Ontiveros Uribe, M., Serrano Gómez, P. (2008). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants. Mental Health Magazine, 31 (4), 307-319.