Post Natal Depression Forum

Posted: 04 October 2007 at 4:00pm | IP Logged

I've been taking anti-depressants (Sertraline) for nearly 3 months now and I have to say I feel much much better than I did, so much so that I'm wondering if it's time to come off the tablets...but then I also think that it's just the tablets doing what they're supposed to so maybe I should stick with them for longer...I am just really surprised at how well I feel, I really didn't expect to feel like "me" ever again!  I thought I'd still feel really low and fed-up but it would be more manageable somehow..but I don't feel like that, I feel "normal" - perhaps my dose is too high, or perhaps just right? 

Sorry, I don't know what the point of my thread is really now I'm typing it out..I guess I'm curious of other's experiences and how you knew it was time to start coming off the tablets..and whether the way I'm feeling is normal..don't get me wrong, it's great, I just never expected it!

I haven't discussed this with my gp yet and of course I will do that before making any decisions..thanks, Greedy, x

Posted: 04 October 2007 at 4:04pm | IP Logged

I wouldn't come off them just yet. There are supposed to be used for at least 6 months I think.

I'm glad you are feeling better and well done for getting through the tunnel, xxxx.

Posted: 04 October 2007 at 4:26pm | IP Logged

Good news to hear you are feeling so much better but I would seek advice from the doc before you come off them (I know you would anyway!)

I don't have much experience of them so can't offer a lot of advice but he might decrease your dosage gradually until you can stop completely

So glad you are feeling "normal" again although not sure you ever were

Kidding!!

xxxx

Posted: 01 November 2007 at 9:39pm | IP Logged

Hi Greeds,

I was on Citro wotsit for a year.  Like you I felt fine early on, thought I could cope, stopped but hit rock bottom big style.  It usually takes between 1 year to 18 months for anti-depressants to make an impact, it depends on the type and severity of the depression. 

I would also consult your gp before thinking about coming off them as they like to chat with you first, for example if you're seeing a counsellor (as I was) they would advise you to remain on the tablets to help cushion the emotional turmoil that occurs when revisiting hard times.  I started weaning off 'em at around 9 months and stopped at 12, totally by accident because I'd ran out. 

Now I haven't looked back since coming off them, but please don't rush getting off the pills, they are afterall a lifeline when in a dark place.

[oooo gone all morose now!]