Antidepressants

What is antidepressants?

The most common type is the SSRI, like sertraline, escitalopram, or fluoxetine. Others include SNRIs like venlafaxine, older tricyclics, and mirtazapine. Doctors also use them for OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and PMDD. In India, you need a prescription from a psychiatrist or another medical doctor.

Key things to know

Benefits often start after 1 to 2 weeks. The full effect can take 4 to 6 weeks. Early side effects like nausea, headaches, or poor sleep often settle. Antidepressants aren't addictive the way some drugs are, but stopping suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms. That's why doses are lowered slowly.

• SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed type.
• Expect 4 to 6 weeks before the full effect.
• Early side effects often settle within a couple of weeks.
• Stopping suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms. Taper with your doctor.
• If you're under 25, you need close follow-up in the first weeks, since a small number of people get more suicidal thoughts at first.

What helps

For many people, medication works best alongside therapy. A course usually continues for at least 6 months after you feel better, to lower the chance of relapse. Tell your doctor about side effects, other medicines, alcohol, and pregnancy plans. Never change your dose on your own.

How SelfMind can help

SelfMind is an AI companion for everyday mental health support: a private place to talk through what you are feeling, in Hindi, English or Hinglish, at any hour. It is not therapy and not a crisis service; it works alongside professional care, never in place of it. You can try it free, no account needed.

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Related terms

• Depression (major depressive disorder)
• Psychiatrist
• Anxiety disorder
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)