Most work gradually. They may bring some improvement after several days, but the drug s full effect may not appear for several weeks. If there are no improvements after 6 weeks, the doctor will prescribe a different drug. He pointed out that a person is likely to respond to the same antidepressant drug that has worked well for a family member. Biochemistry runs in families.
Side effects are no longer a major obstacle.
The older antidepressants were notorious for causing dry mouth, urinary hesitancy, constipation, blurred vision, fatigue, drowsiness, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and other unpleasant symptoms. They are now rarely used. The newer agents are generally well tolerated and have far fewer unwanted effects. All side effects should be discussed with your doctor. Often, the drug or the dosage can be altered to provide the best effect with the fewest problems.