Medications for depression
On this page you can read about antidepressants. The page is aimed at adults who are being treated for depression by the psychiatric services in Central Denmark Region.
If you have been prescribed antidepressants for anxiety, OCD or PTSD, it is also a good idea for you to read this.
The information may also be relevant for you if you have been prescribed antidepressants as part of your treatment for bipolar disorder. Please note that if you suffer from bipolar disorder, you will usually be taking other medications as well.
About medications for depression
Medications for depression are used especially to treat moderate to severe depression.
The medications can also be used to treat other mental disorders such as anxiety.
Types of medication
Medications for depression can be divided into different types.
SSRI medications are often the first choice because they usually cause fewer side effects than other medications.
If SSRI medications do not work, you may be offered SNRI or TCA medications.
You may also be offered other forms of medication for depression.
Below you can read more about the different types of medication.
Which medication is right for you?
The best treatment for you depends, among other things, on the severity of your depression and whether you have suffered from depression before. Read about the varying degrees of depression.
Mild depression
If you suffer from mild depression, you usually do not need to take medication. Instead, your healthcare provider – typically your family doctor – will keep an eye on how you are feeling and provide guidance and support.
Moderate depression
If you suffer from moderate depression, you will usually be offered medication.
Most people suffering from moderate depression will need to take medication in order to feel better. However, some people may be helped by supportive counselling or psychotherapy – for example cognitive therapy or interpersonal therapy.
If you suffer from moderate depression and you have not previously suffered from depression, your healthcare provider will typically suggest SSRI medications.
Severe depression
If you suffer from severe depression, medication is usually necessary.
If you suffer from severe depression with psychotic symptoms, you will usually be admitted to a psychiatric ward. In this case, in addition to antidepressants, you may be prescribed antipsychotic medication for a period of time.
How is your treatment managed?
For as long as you are being treated by the psychiatric services, the doctor who is in charge of your treatment will renew your prescriptions and ensure that the right treatment guidelines are followed.
The doctor will ask about your experience with the effect and side effects of the medication.
With some medications, your doctor will measure your blood pressure, take blood samples and run electrocardiograms (ECGs) both before you start taking the medication and at regular intervals during your treatment.
Pregnancy
Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Your doctor can advise you on the use of medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Alcohol
With certain antidepressants, you are advised to avoid drinking alcohol. Ask your doctor if you need more information.
For how long will you be on medication?
It may take up to six weeks to establish whether the medication is working. If you suffer unpleasant side effects, or if you feel that your medications are not having the desired effect, you may need to increase the dose or switch to another types of medication.
Once you and your doctor have established what is the best medication for you, it is a good idea to continue treatment for a while after you have recovered from your depression.
How long you should continue taking the medication depends, among other things, on whether it is your first depressive episode, or whether you have suffered one or more episodes in the past.
If it is your first depressive episode, it is usually safe to gradually stop taking your medication six to twelve months after you have recovered from your depressive episode. Remember to talk to your doctor before you gradually stop taking your medication.
If you have suffered one or more depressive episodes in the past, you should generally continue taking your medication for a longer period of time. Some people need medical treatment for many years, and others need life-long medical treatment.
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