Question: How Can I Stop Taking Zoloft Safely?
Full Question: I've been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and as a
consequence was prescribed several drugs to help me cope. However, I chose
to see this as a blessing in disguise and have been pursuing a career in
natural healing. However, I would like to eliminate Zoloft from my drugs --
how can I do that safely?
D.K., female, age 47
Answer: The process to eliminate Zoloft (Sertraline) from your body needs to be done
very carefully. I would recommend reducing the dosage of Zoloft by 25mg
every 2 weeks. Do this until your dosage is 25mg per day, then reduce it to
12.5 mg every 2 weeks until you are no longer taking it. Please be careful
with this. Be sure your doctor knows what you are doing. If you are taking a
time release version of Zoloft you will need to get a new prescription at
the lower dose. Do not break apart time release tablets.
For your Fibromyalgia and to replace the Zoloft I would recommend using
SAMe(S-adenosyl methionine). SAMe is used by your body to make
neurotransmitters as well as the pineal hormone melatonin. There are more
than 100 published studies on the effectiveness of SAMe for depression.
Start with a dosage of 200mg 2x per day for 2-3 weeks. You may then increase
the dosage if needed. Do not take more than 1600mg per day of SAMe. Take
SAMe during daylight hours for the best results.
Malic acid is also very helpful for Fibromyalgia. 2400mg per day is a good
dosage.
Be Well,
Christopher Stewart,
Medical Intuitive
Free Advice: Ask A Medical Intuitive
Disclaimer: Christopher Stewart shares insights derived from intuitive communications. Any diagnosis, root causes of imbalances, herbal remedies, treatment options, etc. that he advises/suggests are not meant to override your personal health providers' recommendations/prescriptions.
Q&A published May 15, 2006
