Generic Zoloft OK? Please Help?!?

Question

I have just been prescribed 25 mg of Zoloft, moving to 50 mg after two weeks (if needed). I have never takin it before so I am a little scared to say the least (this is for OCD and social anxiety).

I have read horror stories about the generic Teva Zoloft, and, much to my dismay, that is what I got at Target Pharmacy and now I am worried about taking it. Is this a valid worry? Should I wait a month and get the Greenstone generic at Wallgreens? I am so scared and maybe I shouldn't take it at all.

I thought generics were "All The Same" (the pharmacist and doctor both said that) but after reading many, many posts on here I am have extreme second thoughts. Any help is appreciated so much!!

P.S. If you are a pharmacist even better!!

Answer 1

My insurance switched me to the generic Zoloft a few months ago and it seems to work the same as the regular kind

Answer 2

Hi there, generic sertraline is basically the same as zoloft in terms of effectiveness and safety. But all antidepressants can have side effects (usually mild & they go away with time... rarely severe).
One thing to keep in mind: for the first 3-4 weeks, all the effects you feel are side effects. The benefits don't come until 3-4 weeks after starting or increasing the dose. So, hang in there, the good part is yet to come. Some people get a little jittery the first few weeks.. it will get better. If the jitters are too strong, let the prescriber know, they might be able to add a mild sedative temporarily.

Answer 3

Your anxiety about your anxiety appears to be overtaking reasonable judgement. 25mg. is a mild dose of Zoloft. After a few weeks - to a couple of months you will likely find the anxiety will fade and be in a calmer frame of mind. Note that it takes time before you can see differences in how you feel.

I myself take Zoloft, and was switched to generic. There is no difference in so far as I can tell. But, don't take my word for it, give your Dr. a phone call and ask him about this new anxiety you are experiencing.
The best thing about Zoloft going generic is that not everyone can afford the $120+ dollars a month. Generic is now a more reachable price for those of us with the need to take it.

Answer 4

I am going to Ferris State for Pharmacy, and I warn you 1st and foremost, that all anti-depressants come with risks. It's good to know that you're doing your research, but watch your behaviors and thought processes on the drug. Generic formulas and prescriptions are usually soo similar to the main stream brand that you need not worry. If you have any concerns, talk to a registered Pharmacist at any drug store or chain store...they would be happy to answer your questions. Good luck by the way!

Answer 5

generic Zoloft is fine. The posts you read are anecdotal, and from people that have an axe to grind.

Of course, your doctor and pharmacist could BOTH be lying to you. We get paid more to lie to patients!

Answer 6

For a generic to be licensed for sale in the U.S., it needs to prove it is equivalent to the brand. The differences have to do with the inactive ingredients.
Some people think generics are so much worst than the brand and increase their memory of side effects.

Answer 7

hullo
not all generic drugs are good,sometimes they are manufactured by cheap companies,better to use the original ones as Zoloft(sertraline HCL).it is approved by the FDA.

Dr solo

Answer 8

I work for Mental Health America, and I have never, never seen anyone that had a problem with a generic. I wouldn't worry. However, if you feel that it is too big of a problem, talk to your psychiatrist.

Answer 9

the generic brand is ok or it wouldnt have been made
its cheaper and that helps too