Medication Q's and A's: Frequently Asked Questions about Antidepressant Medication
Q: Can I stop taking my medication when I start feeling better?
A: No. Do not stop taking your medication until you have talked to your doctor. If you stop taking your medication too soon, your symptoms may return. Also, some medications may need to be stopped gradually to allow your body to adjust to the change.
Q: Are antidepressant medications addictive?
A: No. Anti-depressant medications are not addictive.
Q: How long will the antidepressant medication take to work?
A: Most people begin to feel better after taking medication for 2 to 6 weeks. Some symptoms may improve before others. If your depression has not improved after 6 weeks, talk to your doctor. You and your doctor can then work together to alter the dose or try a new medication.
Q: Will I have to be on antidepressant medication for the rest of my life?
A: No. Once you recover from your depression, you may have to keep taking your antidepressant medication for another 4 to 9 months to prevent the depression from returning. People who are suffering from a second bout of depression may want to keep taking their antidepressant longer so that the depression does not come back.
Q: Are there any dangerous side effects of anti-depressant medications?
A: There are some side effects from antidepressant medication. These side effects are usually mild. If taken properly, there are no life-threatening side effects from antidepressant medications. If you experience any unpleasant side effects, tell your doctor immediately so that you can work together to adjust the dose or try a new medication.
Q: Will the antidepressant medications help with my anxiety?
A: Yes. Anxiety is often related to or a symptom of depression. Antidepressant medications will often help to relieve anxiety or panic attacks.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while I am taking antidepressant medication?
A: This is a question that you should ask your doctor. Drinking alcohol can make some antidepressant medications work less well, so you may want to cut down or stop drinking alcohol while you are taking antidepressant medication. Also, the alcohol that you drink may have stronger effects when you are taking antidepressant medications.
