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Is Loss Of Appetite A Symptom Of IBS And Anxiety?
Question: I need to have someone on this site help me. I have not had an appetite for 2 and a half months. I take 20mg of Pamelor and 12 and a half mg of Zoloft. I have lost 12 pounds. I know seratonin meds can suppress appetite, but this is way too long for loss of appetite. I suffer from IBS and Anxiety. The doctors have ruled out cancer or any other disease. My lab work is excellent and I had two normal CT scans in the last two months. I also see a psychologist and he has no answers. What is heaven's name is going on?
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
Loss of appetite can be a common symptom of both IBS and anxiety, as well as depression. All three of these conditions are effectively treated with SSRI medications such as the Zoloft which you are taking.
SSRI medications do NOT decrease appetite. The dose of Zoloft you are taking is much, much too low. You should be on between 50-100mg of Zoloft daily. I would talk with your doctor about increasing the dose.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.
In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
Loss of appetite can be a common symptom of both IBS and anxiety, as well as depression. All three of these conditions are effectively treated with SSRI medications such as the Zoloft which you are taking.
SSRI medications do NOT decrease appetite. The dose of Zoloft you are taking is much, much too low. You should be on between 50-100mg of Zoloft daily. I would talk with your doctor about increasing the dose.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.
In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
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