Zoloft is an antidepressant drug that can be used to treat several mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It works as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that slows the reabsorption of the chemical messenger serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is believed to help regulate mood and anxiety. Speak to a licensed doctor to get anxiety treatment from EzCare Medical Clinic in San Francisco.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal occurrence in everyone’s life. It is characterized by the feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease about a forthcoming event that can’t be controlled or of uncertain outcome. Occasional anxiety isn’t something serious. Unfortunately, some individuals have excessive or prolonged bouts of anxiety that that may include a compulsive behavior or panic attacks that are disruptive to everyday living. When the tension reaches this level, an evaluation for an anxiety disorder should be sought.
Anxiety disorder is a group of mental disturbances characterized by anxiety as a central or core symptom. Typically, the following conditions are included as forms of an anxiety disorder:
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Stress or PTSD
- Specific phobias
- Generalized anxiety disorder
How to take Zoloft
Approved by the FDA in 2003, Zoloft is the only medication that has been approved for long-term use. The dosage prescribed will depend on the age of the patient and the medical condition being treated. Depending on how well a patient responds to treatment, the physician may reduce or increase the dosage.
In most patients, the full effects of Zoloft are not noticeable for six to eight weeks, but it can vary. Prescriptions are written either for a liquid or tablet form depending on the age and preference of the patient. While the liquid form of Zoloft must be combined with a half cup of water, ginger ale, soda, lemonade or orange juice, the tablet form should not be altered or crushed.
Patients should continue taking Zoloft for as long as the doctor instructs, even if they begin to feel better. Withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, tremors, lightheadedness, muscle pains, weakness, insomnia, and anxiety can occur if you abruptly stop taking this medication.
Side Effects of Zoloft
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dyspepsia
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Loose stools
- Nausea
- Tremor
- Headache
- Paresthesia
- Anorexia
- Decreased libido
- Delayed ejaculation
- Diaphoresis
- Ejaculation failure
- Xerostomia
When patients first start Zoloft, or when the dosage is changed patients should watch for more severe side effects such as agitation, nervousness, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, tremors, seizures, persistent vomiting or nausea, severe abdominal pain, changes in urine or stools, or yellowing of the eyes or skin. If any of these are experienced, report them immediately to the doctor. It is also important to contact your physician if symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as trouble breathing, severe dizziness, swelling, itching, or a skin rash are experienced.
While the risk of a fatal overdose of Zoloft is low, patients or loved ones should know the signs. Symptoms of an overdose include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, increased or slow heart rate, and coma.
Zoloft prescription in San Francisco
Individuals who are concerned about how they deal with anxiety may find an anxiety self-assessment helpful to help determine if they need to seek professional treatment. While this self-assessment is in no way a replacement for mental health consultation, it can be helpful in recognizing issues that are related to anxiety.
With the self-assessment in hand, individuals in San Francisco should make an appointment with their anxiety doctor or another healthcare provider. EZCare Clinic is a full-service medical practice dedicated to treating the whole patient. With a full range of doctors, clinicians, therapists, and counselors, we can assist you from diagnosis to recovery and every step in between.
During your initial consultation, your healthcare team will assess your overall health and discuss any possible medical conditions that may be a contributing factor in anxiety. Once completed, your physician will determine the type of treatment needed and write any prescriptions required. During the consultation, your doctor may also recommend therapy services for anxiety.
While some people do not understand the value of therapy, many who’ve used this service learn a great deal about how to combat the overwhelming feelings associated with an anxiety disorder. Therapists can work with individuals alone, or sometimes, they may recommend a group setting in which effective coping techniques can be taught.
Anxiety help in San Francisco
Having an anxiety disorder is frustrating enough; not getting help only makes it worse. Take time to begin the process of getting better. Medications like Zoloft are designed to get you back to your normal self by curbing the feelings of fear and panic that can sometimes weigh us down.
EZCare Clinic is open Monday through Sunday, from 11 am to 7 pm. You can schedule appointments online, or call us at (415) 966-0848. Walk-ins are always welcome.
