Should I at 21 with MDD keep trying new antidepressants?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 21 years old and have been suffering from major depressive disorder. I have tried a number of antidepressants, but they either have not worked or have stopped working after some time.

Each time I change my medication, I hope it will be effective, but I end up feeling disappointed. Honestly, it has become quite disheartening for me.

My psychiatrist has asked me to try more alternatives, but I was wondering if there is a limit to how many medications a person usually tries.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

It is common in major depressive disorder for a person to have had a good response to an antidepressant previously but later find that it is no longer improving depressive symptoms as effectively. This is considered treatment-resistant depression.

When an antidepressant does not improve depressive symptoms despite an optimal dose and an adequate trial of six to eight weeks, switching to another antidepressant is often considered. Switching within the same class of antidepressants can also be helpful. If you have had a partial response to your current medication, augmentation strategies may also be considered.

Lifestyle changes are strongly recommended in depression, as they can be very helpful.

Regular physical exercise.
Social interaction.
Avoiding substance use.
Maintaining a regular sleep and wake cycle.
Engaging in learning new skills is a healthy lifestyle measure that may improve symptoms.

Newer treatment options approved by the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration) for treatment-resistant depression, such as ketamine therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and more intensive treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), are generally safe and have shown good response rates in appropriate patients.

The choice of treatment depends on both the clinical presentation and the patients' preferences. These therapies can be discussed with your psychiatrist to determine which option is most suitable for you.

Be assured that depression is a treatable illness, and there are many effective treatment options available.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.