Action
Antidepressant alter the balance of some of the chemicals in our brain (neurotransmitters). They mainly effect a neurotransmitter called serotonin. An altered balance of serotonin and other chemicals is thought to play a part in depression and other conditions.
Timeline
Once daily
How to take
Tablet
Length of treatment
Stop 3-6 months after feeling better (taper off)
Effect-time before
4-6 weeks although kicks in within a week in some patients
Tests
-
Important side effects
GI (diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting) Appetite and weight change Headaches Drowsiness (can take at night) Anxiety for 2 weeks Withdrawal
Complications and contraindications
Suicide risk (refer) Past psychiatric history
Supplementary advice
www.mind.org.uk