HomeAnswersPsychiatrydepressionHow long should I take my antidepressant medication?

How long should I take medicine for depression?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At November 3, 2015
Reviewed AtJuly 24, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am suffering from depression. I consulted a doctor and he prescribed me tablet Nexito and Lonazep. After taking the tablet for a month, I stopped it now. I am suffering with headache again. Should I continue the medication?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Depression is a mood disorder and the disorder occurs in episodes. The treatment also should be continued for a long duration. Nexito is Escitalopram and the drug should be continued for at least three to six months post remission of symptoms in the first episode. You have stopped taking the drug within a month and that too abruptly. This is the reason you are having withdrawal symptoms in the form of a headache. If the symptoms are persisting and are causing significant distress then, in my opinion, the drug should be continued again. Consult your doctor for reevaluation and start taking tablet again. Do not get feared by the drug. The drug if taken under a proper prescription does not cause dependence and is safe. This will help you to come out of your depression.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I would like to know the safest dosage which I can go for. Is 1-1 tablet daily fine?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Initially, you would get help from one tablet in the morning after breakfast. After two weeks, increase the dose to twice a day. Once remission is achieved, you can reduce the dose gradually. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnui
Dr. Seikhoo Bishnui

Psychiatry

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