Antidepressants can cause unpleasant side effects. Symptoms such as nausea, weight gain or sleep problems can be common initially. For many people, these improve within weeks of starting an antidepressant.
Talk to your doctor or mental health provider about any side effects you're having.
If side effects seem intolerable, you may be tempted to stop taking an antidepressant or to reduce your dose on your own. Don't do it. Your symptoms may return, and stopping your antidepressant suddenly may cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Talk with your doctor to help identify the best options for your specific needs.
Next Steps
Consider these strategies:
Take your antidepressant with food, unless otherwise directed.Eat smaller, more frequent meals.Suck on sugarless hard candy.Drink plenty of fluids, such as cool water or ginger ale that's lost its carbonation. Try an antacid or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, others).Talk to your doctor about a dosage change or a slow-release form of the medication.
Health Tips
Take a brief nap during the day.Get some physical activity, such as walking.Avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery until the fatigue passes.Take your antidepressant at bedtime if your doctor approves.Talk to your doctor to see if adjusting your dose will help.