Starting an Antidepressant: What You Need to Know
You’re not alone in having questions about antidepressants.
Starting treatment can sometimes be scary: “What if I become dependent?”, “What if it doesn’t work?” These concerns are normal. And this is exactly where your pharmacist can help you see things more clearly.
Mental health medication is not meant to change who you are, but to help you regain better emotional balance.
With appropriate support, many people notice significant improvements in mood, sleep, and motivation after a few weeks.
What Is an Antidepressant and What Is It Used For?
Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, or even certain types of chronic pain. They work by regulating chemical substances in the brain, such as serotonin or norepinephrine, that influence mood.
Examples of Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants
Antidepressants are divided into several families depending on how they work. Here are some of the most commonly used in Québec:
- SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram. Often prescribed first because of their effectiveness and good tolerance.
- SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): venlafaxine, duloxetine. Used in particular for anxiety symptoms or chronic pain.
- Tricyclic antidepressants: amitriptyline, nortriptyline. Prescribed less frequently, but effective in certain specific situations.
Each medication works differently from one person to another. Your pharmacist can help you understand which treatment is best for you.
Which Antidepressant Is Best?
This is a common question, and the answer is simple: there is no single “most effective” antidepressant for everyone.
Effectiveness depends on:
- the type of symptoms (depression, anxiety, pain, etc.)
- how your body responds
- your other medications or health conditions
The best antidepressant is the one that works for you. This is why regular follow-up with your pharmacist and your doctor is essential to find the right treatment and the right dose.
How Long Does It Take for Antidepressants to Work?
When starting treatment, it generally takes between 2 and 8 weeks before you fully feel the positive effects.
And during this time, it’s normal to doubt: “Is it working?”, “Should I already feel better?” Your pharmacist can support you during this important stage.
They can:
- explain what to expect
- monitor your reaction to the medication,
- and work with your doctor to adjust the dosage if needed.
The key is patience: your body needs time to adapt.
The key is patience: your body needs time to adapt.
Finding the right dosage often requires adjustments. A dose that is too low may be ineffective, while a dose that is too high may cause unwanted effects.
Your Accès pharma chez Walmart pharmacist ensures that:
- your treatment is well adapted to your condition,
- your treatment is well adapted to your condition,
- and that the timing of your dose matches your symptoms.
Even if you feel better, never change your dose without supervision. Stopping abruptly or adjusting without guidance can affect your progress.
Antidepressant Side Effects: What to Watch For and When to Consult?
Like any medication, antidepressants can cause side effects, especially at the beginning.
The most common include:
- fatigue, drowsiness, or insomnia
- nausea or vomiting
- constipation
- headaches
- dry mouth
- decreased sexual desire
- changes in appetite or weight
These effects are generally temporary and lessen over time. However, if you experience agitation, irritability, or dark thoughts, contact your pharmacist or doctor immediately.
Interactions and Precautions
- Alcohol and antidepressants: alcohol can increase drowsiness, reduce medication effectiveness, and increase the risk of side effects.
- Missed or double dose: never double your dose. If you forget a tablet, ask your pharmacist for advice before taking another.
- Duration of action (alternate phrasing): some antidepressants leave the body quickly, which may cause withdrawal if stopped suddenly. This is why reducing the dose gradually is essential.
Withdrawal: How to Stop an Antidepressant Gently
After several months of treatment, it’s normal to wonder how you would feel without medication. However, stopping too early is generally not recommended, as the risk of relapse remains high. If you are considering reducing your dose, it must be planned and gradual, in collaboration with a healthcare professional.
- Stopping too quickly can cause:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- irritability
- sleep disturbances
- “electric shock” sensations
- anxiety or agitation
- crying spells
Your pharmacist can work with you and your doctor to create a progressive tapering plan. This helps minimize withdrawal effects and monitor how you feel at each stage.
The Pharmacist’s Role in Antidepressant Follow-Up
Antidepressant treatment requires support and regular monitoring. And throughout this journey, your pharmacist is a trusted ally.
They can:
- clearly explain your medication and its effects
- answer your questions confidentially
- ensure personalized follow-up based on your progress
- collaborate with your doctor to adjust treatment
At every stage, questions, doubts, adjustments, your pharmacist is there to support you, at your own pace.
Need Personalized Advice?
Do you have questions about your treatment, your side effects, or withdrawal? Make an appointment with your Accès pharma chez Walmart pharmacist. They can offer confidential and personalized support.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and pharmacist-owners affiliated with Accès pharma chez Walmart cannot be held responsible for this information. The information was true and accurate at the time of publication, but it is subject to change.
