Quote From: mischif12As a nurse with and advanced degree in neuro psychiatric medicine I would have to say that Zoloft is not addictive. Nor for that matter are any of the antidepressants that regulate sorotonin re uptake in the brain. That many people go on the drugs and stay on for years is based on the fact they have a chemical imbalance in the brain that cannot correct itself. In order for their brains to function normally they need an antidepressant to level out their brain chemistry.
In my discussions with psychiatrist I have heard and found that some antidepressants are better than others for recovering addicts. Paxil and Prozac are on the downside of that list Wellbutrin and Zoloft seem to work better for those in recovery. I personally take an anti-depressant cocktail of Trazadone and Wellbutrin which maintains my serotonin levels and helps to curb cravings. When I stop taking one or the other or both I find myself slipping back into my depression and the committee in my head so common to all addicts begins session and I am a wreck in no time. This is called rebound depression and is not a withdrawal symptom simply a very fast return to the previous state of the depression. So don't be afraid to try the Zoloft. Also remember that most antidepressants take 6 to 8 weeks to reach effective levels in your blood so if you don't see improvement right away stay with it for a while. Also therapy is an important component in this equation.
Hope this helps
Mischief
what a relief, thank you so much for responding so quickly. i do not know what i would do if all of a sudden i had to go off zoloft......really, it is a scary thought. i sure could relate to your condition when you are not medicated !!! like me, when i'm off my meds, this leaves me with my worst enemy..."myself", and i'm out to destroy the only person that can save my sorry butt and that is me. i've not heard the expression "rebound depression" before, it is a good one , that is exactly what happens. i don't know how old you are, and i'm not asking, but my depression soared when premenopause kicked in........so many emotions, weight gain, lonely, hopeless, it all seemed to come crashing down....well, i think i've gone on enough....i just hope to hear from you or someone else who understands and can empathize with me................thanks again....."luka"