Winter 2018-19

Feel better by taking your antidepressants as prescribed

Depression is the most common mental health condition in the United States, affecting more than 14 million people. Despite numerous available treatments, depression remains very common and disabling.

There are many reasons why you may stop taking your antidepressant medication, including:

• They are not working: It may take up to eight weeks to notice positive changes, and it is rare to feel better right away. Keep taking your medication and talk with your provider about your concerns. Sometimes a dose increase or switching medications is all you need.
• You’ve have tried them, but they’re just not working: You're unique. It may take several tries before finding the best medication for you. This is a common challenge in treating depression, but there are many medications to choose from, so don't give up and talk to your prescriber!
• You feel better and think you can stop taking them. If you start to feel better, it’s likely the medication is working. Keep at it! Missing or skipping doses can take away from the healthy changes you are feeling. Discuss with your provider what the next step should be before stopping your medication.
• You can't remember to take them: You're not alone! There are many reminder tools that might work for you. Consider calendar reminders, use a pill box or a mobile app such as Medisafe Medication Reminder, which sends you a phone reminder.
• You’re having side effects: Call or make an appointment with your prescriber to discuss. In the meantime, know that some side effects go away with time, and there are ways to manage them. They may include:
  • Fatigue and drowsiness: Consider taking your medication at night and practice good sleep habits. If it continues, talk to your doctor.
  • Insomnia: Some antidepressants may cause you to feel more awake instead of sleepy. Consider taking yours first thing in the morning. Avoid caffeine in the second half of the day, keep a regular sleep schedule, and limit alcohol intake.
  • Sexual dysfunction: This is a bothersome problem that many patients experience with antidepressants. These effects may decrease over time, but if not, talk with your doctor about your options, such as potentially changing your dose or other management strategies.
  • Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea or constipation: These side effects often go away within the first few weeks. In the meantime, consider taking your medication with a bit of food such as crackers or toast. For diarrhea, discuss with your provider or pharmacist other short-term over-the-counter treatments. To combat constipation, stay hydrated, exercise, and keep a balanced diet with adequate fiber.
  • Weight gain: Antidepressants should be complemented with a healthy diet and exercise. If these interventions are not helping, talk with your doctor. For some, weight gain may be a sign of improvement because weight loss is often a sign of depression.

Starting and taking your antidepressant consistently is important, and your experience matters to your healthcare team. Talk to your provider and pharmacist about any concerns you may have to limit side effects and get the most from your medication.