HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Hot Flashes, Dizziness And Drowsiness While On Sertraline?

Good evening, I was just perscribed sertraline HCL 50 mg tablets on Thursday. I was directed to take 1/2 tablet daily X one week then increase to one tablet daily. But, I didn t know, so therefore I took a whole tablet on Thursday night. Then Friday night I took a half of tablet. Then I skipped last night. I am having weird side effects like hot flashes, dizziness, drowsiness, and rapid heart patterns. I don t like the feeling at all. Is this because I took them wrong? And should I keep taking them? Thanks
Wed, 26 Oct 2016
Report Abuse
Diabetologist,  's  Response
Hi. Sertraline usually is given at lower doses initially for the first week. And then increments of 25mg/week is made. All the side effects you have mentioned can happen with sertraline. It can be exaggerated due to uneven frequency of intake.
I would recommend my patient to take the doses as prescribed. If then the side effects are severe and unbearable, then I would go for a change in drug. And for your question, yes continue taking them as prescribed.
Hope the above information helps. Thanks.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Hot Flashes, Dizziness And Drowsiness While On Sertraline?

Hi. Sertraline usually is given at lower doses initially for the first week. And then increments of 25mg/week is made. All the side effects you have mentioned can happen with sertraline. It can be exaggerated due to uneven frequency of intake. I would recommend my patient to take the doses as prescribed. If then the side effects are severe and unbearable, then I would go for a change in drug. And for your question, yes continue taking them as prescribed. Hope the above information helps. Thanks.