Antidepressants

[mark999]

I'm currently on Sertaline 100MG and have been since new year, and am getting on fairly well with it but in recent weeks I have started to feel rubbish again which is leading me to think what choices I have. As my old doctor and the hospital said my choices were increase Sertaline to 150MG, or go to a different type on antidepressant (Not another SSRI, as I have been on Citalopram 40MG before and didn't get on that great with it,so was suggested to try another type altogether) What are peoples experiences with other types? It seems like my old doctor and the hospital seemed quite happy for me to decide what medication I wanted to be on. I'm not sure if my new doctor will let me decide but I just want some idea of peoples experiences.

I am being treated for mid/severe depression and anxiety. I don't really get panic attacks. Although saying that today I had my first one in about 6months.

[Epicene]

I think if you were getting on with sertraline it would be worth increasing that before having to go through the withdrawal process and side effects of new medication.

It is probably also worth thinking about whether anything in your life has changed in the last few weeks that might contribute to you feeling lower. If something stressful is going on, it is likely that you will feel bad irrespective of medication.

In terms of other classes of antidepressants, the likelihood is you'll be offered mirtazipine, venlafaxine or duloxetine. They all have different benefits and drawbacks (mirtazipine is good if you have low appetite or insomnia, venlafaxine is generally best for depression and anxiety). I've been on duloxetine and venlafaxine as SSRIs did nothing for me, and I do find them more effective. For me, they are more energising and lifted me out of depression more quickly.

[mark999]

I'd say on Sertraline100mg my mood has been about 50/50 but slowly getting worse (again) and yes a few bad things have happened it the last month which has pushed it down to more like 30/70

[Steel Maiden]

Trials of SSRIs are best done to the maximum tolerated and effective dose before considering to switch.

[mark999]

Got put on 150mg now

[talaiporia]

I hope it helps and you feel better soon. I also think Oly makes a good point.

[sherlock holmes]

I hope the increase helps you. As you said some bad things have happened recently that have decreased your mood then it sounds like you've had a reactive type of depression which should sort itself out soon as you deal with what has happened, and the sertraline will continue to sort out your brain chemicals for your clinical depression/anxiety.