Posted by S.D. on July 15, 2000, at 4:44:06
In reply to still depressed..., posted by Bonnie J on July 15, 2000, at 1:01:02
There is a pattern they usually follow. If 5 have not worked, consider whether each was given long enough to work (at least 6 weeks *at the maximum tolerated dose*, and I think 8 will sometimes make the difference).
If either Wellbutrin, MAO Inhibitors, Effexor, or tricyclics are not one of the five, then there is hope that one of these will work.
Certain things can be added to an antidepressant that isn't working. My experience is that doctors don't suggest this often but I don't understand why because sometimes it works and should be worth a shot before discontinuing a certain antidepressant. The things that can be added (one at a time) include lithium, a TCA antidepressant or a stimulant. There are others too. Some people respond to meds, or combinations, that aren't thought of as 'antidepressants' which also means doctors aren't likely to try such things. If the depression is serious and they tell you they've run out of medication possibilities, Electro-Convulsive Therapy is effective and not as scary as it seems.But also consider an alternate diagnosis!? Maybe CFIDS or bipolar or ??
Tell us more details about the meds they've prescribed, the symptoms you have...
There are many options so there is still every reason to have hope.
S.D.
poster:S.D.
thread:40496
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000708/msgs/40499.html