Understanding the Reasons for Failure in Depression Treatment and Solutions.

Depression is a mental health issue, and antidepressants are a key method for treating it. However, there are instances where depression does not improve despite taking antidepressants. Let's explore the reasons for this and possible solutions.

 

In conclusion, when antidepressants do not show the desired effects in treating depression, active consultation and collaboration with a doctor are essential.

 

Confirm Consistent Medication Over an Adequate Duration

To evaluate the effectiveness of antidepressants, consistent medication over a sufficient duration is crucial. It typically takes about two weeks to feel the effects of antidepressants, and sometimes, a longer duration may be necessary. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that the medication is taken accurately for the prescribed period, following the doctor's instructions.

 

Significance of Medication Adherence

Approximately 30% of patients prescribed antidepressants discontinue the medication within the first month, and over half of patients self-discontinue within three months. This situation is referred to as 'low medication adherence.' To feel the effects of antidepressants, consistent medication adherence following the doctor's instructions is necessary to benefit from the therapeutic effects on depression.

 

Maintenance and Continuation of Treatment

Even if depressive symptoms improve, complete recovery of the brain may take time. Therefore, it's essential to continue taking antidepressants after symptom improvement. This is known as 'maintenance treatment,' supporting the brain's recovery and preventing relapse. Continuing antidepressant use in the long term, known as 'continuation treatment,' is effective for long-term depression prevention.

 

Developing Habits to Enhance Medication Adherence

Developing certain habits can enhance medication adherence. Using alarms to take medication at specified times, keeping medication visible, and aligning medication times with regular situations can help maintain consistent medication habits. Such habits assist in sustaining medication adherence.

 

Keeping a Treatment Journal

Keeping a treatment journal alongside medication intake is beneficial. Recording the amount and timing of medication, along with changes in mood and motivation, can be helpful during consultations with the doctor and contribute to effective treatment.

 

Adjusting Dosage

In some cases, the lack of efficacy of antidepressants may be due to insufficient dosage. If anticipated effects do not occur after a certain period, consulting with the doctor to adjust the dosage is a common practice. Since appropriate dosage varies among patients, adjusting it to monitor efficacy is essential.

 

Managing Side Effects

Side effects during medication may lead to discontinuation or dosage reduction. However, most side effects are temporary, and they can be managed by continuing medication. Consulting with the doctor to find suitable ways to manage side effects is crucial.

 

Non-Response and Alternative Approaches

Not all patients respond to antidepressant treatment, known as 'non-response.' However, hope should not be lost. Alternative approaches, such as changing to a different antidepressant or considering other therapeutic methods, can be explored with the guidance of a doctor.

 

Symptom Breakthrough

Abrupt worsening of symptoms during treatment, known as 'symptom breakthrough,' may occur. It does not necessarily indicate antidepressant resistance but could be due to various reasons. Consultation with a doctor is necessary to explore appropriate responses, such as dosage adjustments or trying different antidepressants.

 

Polypharmacy

Studies indicate that approximately 59.8% of patients receiving mental health treatment are prescribed two or more psychiatric medications. One-third receive three or more medications. This approach, known as polypharmacy, maximizes therapeutic effects as each medication complements the others.

 

In conclusion, when antidepressants do not show the desired effects in treating depression, active consultation and collaboration with a doctor are essential. Trying various approaches and considering individual patient characteristics can help find effective treatment, improving the patient's quality of life and maintaining long-term mental health.