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I'm Currently Taking 150mg Of Zoloft Once A Day For

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Posted on Sat, 17 Nov 2018
Question: I'm currently taking 150mg of Zoloft once a day for Depression and anxiety. It is causing me to have more bowel movements than I typicallyhave during the week. It's also causing nausea and dizziness. Lowering the dose causes the exact same problems. What should I do as my family doctor is not back in the office until November 5th.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
It is better to divide dose

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.

I read your query and understand your concerns about increased bowel movements as side effect of Zoloft.

I am not sure whether you are taking all dose together or in divided dosage but I feel it will be better to divide the 150 mg in 75 mg BD or50 mg TDS (8 hourly). This will offset the maximum concentration achieved with single dosing to lower level and help you in decreasing the side effects.

In case this is already done it will be better to look for alternative options such as Paroxetine or escitalopram which have less gastrointestinal side effects in compare to Zoloft.

I hope this helps you.
Thanks and regards.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2000

Answered : 3355 Questions

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I'm Currently Taking 150mg Of Zoloft Once A Day For

Brief Answer: It is better to divide dose Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for using Healthcaremagic. I read your query and understand your concerns about increased bowel movements as side effect of Zoloft. I am not sure whether you are taking all dose together or in divided dosage but I feel it will be better to divide the 150 mg in 75 mg BD or50 mg TDS (8 hourly). This will offset the maximum concentration achieved with single dosing to lower level and help you in decreasing the side effects. In case this is already done it will be better to look for alternative options such as Paroxetine or escitalopram which have less gastrointestinal side effects in compare to Zoloft. I hope this helps you. Thanks and regards.