6G-2 Depression Medications: Effectiveness of Medications

Antidepressants can work to treat depression if the patient follows the doctor’s directions. They are typically safe, but they do have some risks.

The FDA warns that doctors should closely monitor adults who take antidepressants, especially during the first four weeks.

Teens and children can benefit from the drugs, but they should also be closely monitored.

Taking antidepressants involves some risks. If any of these side effects occur, they must be reported immediately:

• Symptoms that worsen
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Unusual changes in behavior like sleeplessness, agitation or withdrawal from normal social situations