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Paxil switch Zoloft, taper flu-like symptoms
September 20, 2026··
Hello,
I have been on Paroxetine for 12 years at low doses (usually <20mg). One year ago, despite cautious 3-month tapering steps & custom made Paxil pills (down to ~12mg), unfortunate events caused the highest anxiety peak I ever experienced.
Psychiatrist switched me to Zoloft, quickly increasing to 200mg as lower doses seemed inefficient (switch was absolute horror).
But it came with severe sleep issues, irritable and impatient/hyperactive mood, often increased anxiety that never really disappeared, and digestive issues.
So, I decided by myself tapering 200 to 175mg. It has been fine for 2 weeks, no withdrawal symptoms! So my psychiatrist advised to further reduce to 150mg.
This time, on very 1st day of lowering and ongoing (4 days): flu-like symptoms appear 2hrs after taking, then disappear 3hrs later. Tried changing time I take pills, symptoms follow.
I also get palpitations.
I suppose everything is "normal" so far, and I should get better in a few days?
Zoloft — 150 — 4 days — holding | without clinician
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