How to come off Zoloft

[Donata]

This is actually for my sister who has chronic lyme and is on so many antibiotics it's just ridiculous.  Anyway, she's been taking Zoloft for the past 4 months (100 mg) but wants to come off of it because taking Xanax when she needs it is good enough.  How should she come off of it.  I told her to cut down to 75 mg today and then 50 mg tomorrow and so on.  

Thanks for any help.
Donata

[cj29]

I agree wholeheartedly with Nurse here.  That is way too fast.  Also, I have taken Zoloft in the past and I am actually currently on it at 100MG.  This is just my opinion, but many doctors and therapists actually tend to recommend that one stays on it for about a year because it tends to be more successful long term when the person comes off it.  The fact that she may be feeling better is a good sign that it is doing what it is designed to do.  For example, I feel great and don't feel as if I need it at all, but I am following the doctor's recommendation to stay on it for about a year, so I have chosen to do so...just make sure as long as your sister is on it, ensure she also sees a therapist because all medication will do is cover up the symptoms and the anxiety/panic cycle will never be broken.

As far as tapering of, she needs to consult with her doctor.  Most likely he/she will recommend a MUCH slower tapering schedule.  Keep us posted!

[nursegirl6572]

Hi there...

First of all...tell your sister that she needs to contact her doc for a proper taper schedule.  What you have told her is WAY too fast of a reduction.

Her doc will give her the proper recommendation to minimize any possible symptoms associated with d/cing the Zoloft.

If her doc wants to see her in person for this...tell her to MAINTAIN her current dose until she gets in there!

Good luck to her!