I have been taking Sertraline 50mg for OCD and depression for two months without any improvement, so I recently increased my dosage to 100mg on my own. Is this dosage adjustment safe, and would adding another antidepressant help manage my symptoms?

Increasing your sertraline dosage on your own is not recommended, as sudden changes can cause unwanted side effects. While higher doses are often needed for OCD, any adjustment must be supervised by your doctor to monitor your safety. Additionally, do not add another antidepressant on your own. Combining these medications carries a risk of a serious interaction called serotonin syndrome. Please contact your prescribing doctor right away. They can safely evaluate your progress, manage your dosage, or discuss alternative options like adjusting your treatment plan or adding therapy.

I have been taking Sertraline 50 mg for anxiety for the past 12 years; is it safe to continue taking this medicine long-term?

Yes, taking Sertraline 50 mg long-term is generally considered safe and is a common approach for managing chronic anxiety. Many patients take it for decades with well-tolerated results. However, because you have been on it for 12 years, it is important to have regular annual reviews with your doctor. These check-ups ensure the medicine remains effective and allow your physician to monitor for any potential long-term issues, such as changes in bone density or sodium levels. Please do not stop taking this medication or change your dosage without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.