Antidepressant Medications

More than 14 million Americans, or more than 6 percent of adults, experience depression in any given year. Despite these statistics, depression is not a normal part of life, regardless of your age, sex, or health status. The good news is that depression is very treatable. Most patients, even those with severe depression, show improvement after they seek treatment. Your doctor will prescribe treatment based on the pattern of your depression, its severity, persistence of symptoms, and history. Treatments Learn more about a treatment for depression that has made a difference in the lives of millions of people. Click here: WELLBUTRIN XL® (bupropion HCl extended-release tablets) If your doctor prescribes antidepressant therapy, give it time. It may take four weeks or more before you notice a change in your mood, and possibly longer before you feel the full benefits of medication. Your doctor will decide how long you need to stay on antidepressant medication. Following your doctor’s directions is critical to your depression treatment success. Also of Interest Get the most from your next doctor visit with the help of this handy form. Depression isn’t treated overnight. Hear how Phyllis and Bonnie stay motivated on the road to recovery.
Important Safety Information About Antidepressants Important Safety Information About WELLBUTRIN XL WELLBUTRIN XL is not for everyone. There is a risk of seizure with WELLBUTRIN XL which increases with higher doses. Taking more than 450 mg/day increases the chance of serious side effects. Don’t use it if you’ve had a seizure or eating disorder, or if you abruptly stop using alcohol or sedatives. Don’t take with MAOIs, or medicines that contain bupropion. When used with a nicotine patch or alone, there is a risk of increased blood pressure, sometimes severe. To reduce risk of serious side effects, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems. Other side effects may include weight loss, dry mouth, nausea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, sore throat, constipation, or flatulence. WELLBUTRIN XL is approved only for adults 18 years and over. In some children, teens, and young adults, antidepressants increase suicidal thoughts or actions. Whether or not you are taking antidepressants, you or your family should call the doctor right away if you have worsening depression, thoughts of suicide, or sudden or severe changes in mood or behavior, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose (see Medication Guide: Antidepressant Medicines, Depression and Other Serious Mental Illnesses, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions). Medication Guide for WELLBUTRIN XL Complete Prescribing Information for WELLBUTRIN XL® (bupropion HCl extended-release tablets). http://www.depression.com/medications.html