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Antidepressants for Major Depressive Disorders

Thursday, September 10, 2009
 

Instructions

Why Take an Antidepressant?

  • Step 1:
    Antidepressants aren't meant to turn you into a smiling, happy zombie. The purpose of an antidepressant is to enable you to experience plenty of good days, and to deal with the bad days that are just part of life.

How Long Will It Take an Antidepressant to Work?

  • Step 1:
    Most antidepressants must be taken consistently for about six weeks before you start to feel better.

Will I Need to Be on Antidepressants Forever?

  • Step 1:
    Some people with major depressive disorders do require long-term drug therapy in order to remain stable. Some are able to stop taking antidepressants after six to nine months, but may need them again if they experience another bout of depression.

Won't I Have to try Several Antidepressants ?

  • Step 1:
    More than half of people who use antidepressants find that the first one they try works for them. You may have to try more than one, but knowing what didn't work will help your doctor determine which one might.

What Are the Side Effects?

  • Step 1:
    Common side effects of antidepressants include weight gain, digestive problems, sleepiness and sexual problems. These may go away after you've been using the drug for a while, or they may persist the entire time you're on it.

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