Medications · FAQ
Can I stop sertraline or switch to another antidepressant?
Short answer
Do not stop sertraline suddenly or switch antidepressants on your own. Stopping too quickly can cause withdrawal symptoms, and your original symptoms may return. Your physician can plan a gradual dose reduction or a safe switch based on your treatment history, current dose, side effects, and other medicines.
Stopping sertraline suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms, sometimes called withdrawal. These may include dizziness, nausea, sweating, anxiety, sleep problems, headache, or electric shock-like feelings. These symptoms do not mean sertraline causes addiction, but they are a reason to make changes with medical guidance.
Your physician may recommend reducing the dose in steps. The schedule depends on your dose, how long you have taken it, and how you feel during the change. There is no single taper plan that fits everyone. Do not skip doses at random or cut tablets unless your physician or pharmacist says to do so.
Switching antidepressants also needs planning. Some switches involve a gradual change, while others require a waiting period to avoid dangerous interactions. Your physician will choose the approach for the specific medicines involved.
Feeling better does not always mean it is time to stop. Continued treatment may help lower the chance of symptoms returning. Results vary. Discuss your goals and concerns at follow-up visits. If suicidal thoughts occur during a change, seek prompt help; call or text 988 in a crisis.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.