Depression | MaineHealth Behavioral Health

When you have depression, taking the right medicine for the right amount of time is a really important part of feeling better. So let's take a look at what you can expect from depression medicine. 

Expect to feel better. You should expect your medicine to work. It should improve or completely relieve your depression symptoms. You may need to take it for 1 to 3 weeks before you start to feel a bit better and 6 to 8 weeks before you start to feel a lot better. If you don't start to feel better by 3 weeks, talk to your doctor. 

Expect to find the right medicine. There are lots of different types of depression medicine, so know that you should be able to find one that will work for you. Different medicines work for different people, so you'll need to work with your doctor to find a medicine-or a combination of medicines-that brings you the relief you need. 

Expect some side effects. Side effects pretty much happen with any medicine, and they often start quickly. But the good news is that side effects usually get better or go away over time. If side effects are making you think about stopping your medicine, be sure to talk with your doctor first. Together, you can find a medicine that works for you. 

Remember, depression can come back, so take your medicine for at least 6 months after you start to feel better-and maybe longer, if you've had depression before. Never quit taking depression medicine without talking to your doctor first. By working with your doctor, you can find a medicine that will help you get past depression and back to enjoying life.

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine, Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine