Q. Are antidepressants really effective? Do they really work?

Ans. The clear answer is Yes. They do work. A recent research which analyzed data from more than 500 studies across the world found clear-cut effectiveness of antidepressants. Around 40-50% of patients respond to the first anti-depressant that they use and those who do not, often respond to a different antidepressant or a combination of medicines.

Q. But isn’t taking antidepressants same as running away from the problems of life?

Ans.  Of course not. First of all, antidepressants do not solve the problems of life. They simply can’t. What they do is, they help you in getting back to your best state of mind so that you yourself can solve the problems of life. Please remember, depression is an illness. Depression may be precipitated by a difficult life situation but in itself its an illness. And, the only way of getting out of an illness is to get it treated. Don't confuse life problems with depression.

Q.  I have heard that antidepressants can cause severe side effects. Isn’t that true?

Ans. Yes. Antidepressants can cause side effects. But antidepressants don’t usually cause any serious side effect. The most common side effects of antidepressants are nausea or acidity. Some patients may report of excessive sleep. Most of these side effects can be controlled by making changes in dosages and they also get better with time. Another side effect that most patients are concerned about is weight gain. Weight gain is not caused by all antidepressants and if one keeps a check on diet and exercises, weight gain can be kept in check.

Q. I have heard that antidepressants cause sexual side effects? Is it true?

Ans. This is an interesting area. In some patients antidepressants can decrease libido, however depression itself decreases libido, and antidepressants can actually improve sexual desire by reducing depression. Antidepressants can actually increase the duration of sexual intercourse and are also used for the treatment of premature ejaculation and hence can actually improve the sexual performance. In some patients, antidepressants may cause erection issues and in those, it's better to change to another antidepressant which doesn't cause any sexual side effects. Even if sexual side effects appear, they are completely reversible when the medications are stopped.

Q. What is better antidepressants or use of psychotherapy?

Ans. Both are effective techniques and a combination of the two usually gives the best results.