Do you feel like your depression medication isn't working? Let's talk about it.

Are you struggling with depression? Your doctor may have prescribed you antidepressants. When you start taking these medications, you expect to feel better soon. But sometimes, you may not feel any difference even after taking them for a while. Or, you may find that the medication that worked well at first no longer works. This can be a real pain. But don't worry, you're not alone.

Why do these medications sometimes not work?

Medications for depression cannot cure your condition completely, but they can help you manage your symptoms and live a normal life. However, not all medications work the same way. It can take some time to find the right medication for you. Sometimes there are several reasons why a medication may not work or stop working.

• Tolerance: When you use the same drug for a while, your body may become less sensitive to it. In other words, your body "gets used to" the drug. Then, it doesn't get the same results as before.
• Changes in your body: Things like weight gain and hormonal changes (especially during women's menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause) can change the way your body absorbs medications.
• Life changes and stress: Unexpected problems, relationship problems, or work pressures can cause your depression symptoms to resurface or worsen. You may feel like your medication is not working.
• Interactions with other medications: If you are taking medication for another condition, it is possible that that medication may interact with your antidepressant. Even some over-the-counter pain relievers and vitamins can affect this.
• Other underlying conditions: Sometimes depression can be caused by another condition that you are not aware of. For example, conditions like thyroid problems or diabetes can cause or worsen depressive symptoms.
• Alcohol and drug use: If you increase your alcohol consumption or start using other drugs, depression can get worse.
• Aging: As we age, our metabolism changes. This can change the way the body processes medications, which can make them less effective.

If for any reason you feel like your medication isn't working, the first thing to do is talk to your doctor about it. He or she can then determine the cause and decide whether to change the dosage, switch to a different medication, or add another treatment, such as therapy.

Is the dosage of the medicine correct? Too little? Too much?

You won't see results immediately after starting a medication. Also, your doctor may not be able to find the right dose for you right away. It will take some time. The table below shows some signs that may help you determine whether your medication dose is too low or too high.

Definitely talk to your doctor.

If you feel like the medication isn't working, don't stop taking it abruptly. That can make your depression worse. The best thing to do is to see your doctor and explain how you're feeling.

Sometimes, your doctor can make a very simple change. For example, changing the time you take your medication (like taking it at night instead of in the morning), or gradually increasing the dosage.

Sometimes, you may need to switch medications. When doing so, you need to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. You need to give your body some time to get rid of the old medication and for the new medication to start working. It's like resetting a clock. It's important to be patient.