Talk to your prescriber before changing your dose
Do not stop sertraline suddenly unless your clinician tells you to
Taper slowly, usually by reducing the dose step by step
Common taper steps are 25% to 50% dose reductions every 1 to 4 weeks
Go slower if you have taken sertraline for a long time or at a higher dose
Go slower if you have had withdrawal symptoms before
Go slower if you are sensitive to medication changes
Use the lowest available tablet strengths or liquid sertraline if needed
Keep a symptom diary during the taper
Watch for withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, flu-like feelings, or “brain zaps”
If withdrawal symptoms appear, pause the taper or return to the previous dose and contact your prescriber
If your original symptoms return, contact your prescriber before making further changes
Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs during tapering if possible
Keep regular follow-up appointments while tapering
Seek urgent help if you have suicidal thoughts, severe mood changes, or unusual behavior
Do not taper faster because you feel well without medical guidance