Going off of zoloft 50mg - Is this normal???

[moodykitty]

Because of cost issues (and because I dont think I need it anymore), I've decided to wean myself off of zoloft. I've been taking 50mg of it for the last 12 years because of panic attacks. I know how to spot one when it happens though and what to do - plus I dont want to be on medication forever.

I've taken the last week of pills and broken them in half to get 7 25mg doses. I figured that would be enough to take me off without any real incident but for the last 4 days or so I've had some strange feelings/sensations and wondered if it might be because I'm lessening my zoloft dose with the intent of stopping it altogether.

Most notable symptom is the wild and sudden mood swings. I'll get unusually frustrated at something stupid, or feel like crying for no reason. It seems to come over me in waves - not a few minutes later I'll be fine.  Is this normal?  How long do feelings like this generally last once you take yourself down a dosage for a week or so and then off completely?

I don't want to be on this expensive medication forever.

[Cherie762]

  You should not go off an antidepressant with out a  plan from your dr, 12 years is way to lonf for you to consider doing this solo,  Your dr may have a med that can ease your detoz symptoms.....wild and sudden mood swings sound like they could be manic depressive which sometimes happens from d/c  ing these meds,PLease get your drs help,

[moodykitty]

Just a quick update... I'm finishing up my 2nd week of going off Zoloft and after one brief panic attack and a couple of mild pangs of moodiness and a dash of the blues, I'd have to say it has been pretty uneventful...which is good news!

I went to see my doctor...he really wasn't sure what to tell me. Mental problems aren't really his specialty. He's a general practitioner. But I think a psychologist is probably "too" specialized since they'd have to know your background and such to be able to help?  

I'm pretty surprised I havent been hit with waves of panic. Let's hope things keep looking better!