How To Use Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors are the most common antidepressants.Due to their ability to help treat symptoms of moderate to severe depression with relatively few side effects, SSRIs are often used.The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several drugs for the treatment of depression.Before taking medication, always consult with a mental health professional.
Step 1: Take a look at the uses of SSRIs.
Depression can be treated with SSRIs, but they can also help with other disorders as well.SSRIs can be used to treat symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder.Premature ejaculation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and pain are some of the conditions that are sometimes treated with the SSRIs.
Step 2: Take part in therapy.
Therapy is an important part of treatment for depression.A therapist can help with depression.Cognitive therapy is just as effective as medication according to research.Therapy is the best course of treatment for many people.Therapy can help you identify negative patterns in your thoughts and behaviors.If you want to be more positive and adaptive in your life, your therapist can help you.Therapy and medication can be used to treat more severe depression.
Step 3: Discuss medication with a mental health professional.
Therapy is likely to be used when you receive a depression diagnosis.Enhancing treatment with medications may be recommended by some therapists.The decision to take medication requires a lot of thought.Schedule an appointment with a person who can help you navigate your medication.It is possible to find more support and information from a Psychiatrist who specializes in treating mental health.You can receive a psychological diagnosis from a therapist.If you take other medications for a medical or psychological condition, it is important to make sure they are compatible with each other.
Step 4: Your medical history should be shared.
Discuss your medical history with your prescriber.If you have diabetes, you should tell your prescriber about it.SSRIs can be used in conjunction with these diagnoses, but should be done under strict medical supervision.Do not hide anything from your prescriber.You should be open and honest about your medical history.Discuss any drugs you are taking.vitamins, herbs, and supplements are included.Take note of any allergies or adverse effects you have had with other medications.
Step 5: Discuss side-effects.
It's a good idea to be aware of possible side-effects from your prescriber.Side-effects of medication use are not uncommon.If you are taking a medication, be aware of any unpleasant symptoms that may be linked to the drug.Nausea/vomiting, Blurred vision, Reduced sexual desire, problems with orgasm or erection are some of the common side-effects.
Step 6: Do you know if they are safe?
If you have an allergy to the medication, don't take it.Ask about family history with drugs.If you have taken any of the following medications within the last two weeks, you should avoid them.For at least five weeks, avoid MAOIs and thioridazine.If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, SSRIs are not recommended.
Step 7: St John's Wort is a good place to avoid taking SSRIs.
SSRIs are not compatible with natural remedies.A person is at a higher risk for Serotonin Syndrome when combined.Serotonin Syndrome occurs when a person has dangerously high levels of serotonin in the body and can include symptoms such as shaking, confusion, sweating, and lack of coordination.Seek medical attention if you have any of the symptoms.Let your prescriber know if you take St John's Wort.
Step 8: Don't share your medication.
If you have a friend with depression, don't share your medication.Refer your friend or family member to a mental health professional.It's not safe to share medications.It is not advised to share SSRIs.
Step 9: Start taking the medication.
Your prescriber will probably start you on the lowest dose.The benefits of medication may not be felt before the first few weeks.You may need to return to your prescriber if you don't see any benefits after 3-6 weeks.He or she may change your medication.Take the medication with food to reduce the risk of nausea.
Step 10: It's a good idea to watch for suicidal thoughts.
The strictest warning for prescription drugs is required by the FDA of the United States of America.Children, teenagers, and young adults are warned for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors while taking SSRIs.The risk of suicide is highest in the first weeks and months of taking medication.Seek help if you experience suicidal thoughts.Talk to your therapist and psychiatrist.You can call a hotline or go to the Emergency Department.
Step 11: Contact your prescriber if you have problems.
Let your prescriber know if you experience any unpleasant side-effects.There may be a need for a change of medication due to some side-effects.You may feel like you can't get through the day.As soon as possible, let your prescriber know of any difficulties.
Step 12: Schedule regular appointments.
Stay in touch with your prescriber at the start of treatment.Changes in thoughts, moods, or behaviors can be communicated.Take note of any emerging or persistent symptoms and make regular appointments to discuss mental health and medication.During medication treatment, it is important to receive regular support.Discuss how treatment is going with your prescriber.You may need to change your medication.
Step 13: Take your dose regularly.
Don't skip or miss a dose.If you forget a dose, take it as soon as possible.Do not double up your dose if you forget to take your medication.Contact your prescriber if you take more medication than you are supposed to.
Step 14: The course of treatment needs to be completed.
A course of treatment with SSRIs can last 6 months.Treatment may last longer for some.Treatment for persistent symptoms can last for 2 years.It is possible to prescribe medication indefinitely for very severe depression.
Step 15: Under medical supervision, stop use.
Do not stop taking the drugs without talking to your prescriber.If you stop taking your medication, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.The symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, anxiety, stomach upset, or flu-like symptoms.If you want to stop taking the medication, you need to talk to your prescriber.You will likely decrease your dose over time.Follow the plan of your prescriber.