SSRI's

[robbie178]

I am starting to believe that SSRI's do not work at least for me. I have tried most all of them and the only effect that kicks in is sexual disfunction. I also do not believe that you have to wait 4-6 weeks before it works.I never last this long because I become too discouraged. If the side effects kick in immediately why doesn't the positive effects kick in too. Six weeks is along time to hold out when your you are feeling like you can't lift a pencil or read a simple news paper article with struggling. Does anyone have any advice?

[xanweaner]

I can't tolerate any of the SSRI's either...depending upon your type of depression - if it has an anxiety component to it - you could try mirtazpine.
It's a tetracyclic - known for its sedating properties. You will get quality sleep - the side effects are fairly tolerable except for increase in appetite. You have to watch your weight diligently or the lbs. will creep up....

I won't bore you with why antidepressants take time to be effective - it's unfortunate, but that's one of their drawbacks. The key to success is to find one that you can tolerate while you wait for the depressive symptoms to hopefully begin to improve.

Were you diagnosed with a major depression?

[huneybee41]

Oh yeah I don't know what I was thinking SSRI's are pain meds kindof like napoxen, and other pain relievers.  Sorry.

[JKJ]

i hear ya...i've never had any luck with meds (of any kind) either...and i've been trying for many, many years.  either they just don't work or, like you said, the side effects are unbearable.
so far i still don't know what to do...i wish i had an answer for you, but just wanted to let you know that you are not alone....

[lostsoul2]

I have the same problems.  I have tried about every SSRI and a Tricyclic, but none do much but make me sleepy and have no libido. I also had a painkiller addiction after a back injury, but that's another story.  The pain pills made me feel in a good mood, so they became my antidepressant for a long time.  Not a good idea.  
What works best for me, and always has, is exercise and a good diet.  I know it sounds cliche, but I hate taking any pharmaceuticals anymore.  There are a host of amino acids when taken regularly and with moderate exercise will help your mood.  Unfortunately I don't believe in a magic pill that will fix your depression.  I feel for you, I really do.  Check out the Addiction:Substance abuse forum and you will find an amino acid protocol that is designed to help with depression.  Good Luck.

[huneybee41]

definately discuss with with a physician. These are antidepressants right?  Have you tried Lexapro? This also sounds like you may be on a possible to high of a dose for your system have you tried cutting down a quarter or a fourth? I am not a doctor but I know everybodys systems are different and needs different doses what works for one could be totally wrong for the other. Check out this website www.orthomolecular.org it has alternative treatments for different things on the site hope this helps. Hope you are feeling better and God Bless you.