OVERCOME DEPRESSION WITH THE HELP OF YOUR PHARMACIST

Depression goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness or perceived character weakness; it is a condition characterized by a chemical imbalance in the brain, resulting in profound despair that can impact various aspects of life. The Canadian Mental Health Association reports that 8% of Canadians will encounter a depressive episode at some stage in their lives.

For those grappling with depression, your pharmacist can serve as a valuable partner in optimizing your medication treatment.

THE GOAL: GETTING YOU BACK ON YOUR FEET

The goal of treatment is to help you get over the episode of depression. Because you have your own symptoms of depression and your body reacts to medication in its own way, the drug, its dose and the duration of therapy need to be tailored to your specific needs.

START OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

Managing realistic expectations regarding the speed of your treatment’s effectiveness is crucial. Typically, it takes anywhere from two to eight weeks to notice improvements. While unwanted side effects may manifest more quickly than desired effects, they often subside with time.

To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, your antidepressant regimen will likely commence with small doses to allow your body to acclimate. Your doctor and pharmacist will collaborate to establish a gradual dose increase schedule tailored to your needs, aiming for an “optimal” dose while making adjustments as necessary. If you have any uncertainties about your medication administration, don’t hesitate to consult your pharmacist.

Patience, perseverance, and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen—unless advised otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist—are essential during this process

ADJUSTING AS NEEDED

Your pharmacist will closely monitor your treatment in collaboration with both you and your doctor. Should they determine that, even at the optimal dose, your medication has shown little or no impact on your symptoms within a few weeks, they may suggest adjustments. This could involve increasing the dose, introducing a complementary medication to enhance the primary medication’s effects, or recommending a switch to a different treatment.

If you encounter any side effects during your treatment, it’s crucial to promptly communicate with your pharmacist. Changing your medication dose without consulting a healthcare practitioner is not advisable. Many side effects are temporary and tend to resolve as your body adjusts to the treatment. Your pharmacist can offer guidance on measures to alleviate unwanted side effects.

TREATMENT DURATION: STAYING ON COURSE

After experiencing improvement, it is crucial to maintain your medication regimen to prevent a relapse. Medical experts recommend continuing treatment for at least six months, and in some cases, your doctor may recommend an extended duration, especially if it’s not your initial episode of depression or if your condition is particularly severe.

When the time comes to discontinue your treatment, your doctor or pharmacist will furnish you with specific instructions. Abruptly ceasing medication can lead to undesirable effects and should not be attempted independently. Your pharmacist will offer guidance on a gradual and safe reduction of the dose for a smooth discontinuation process.

SERVICES TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

Your Medis Pharmacy team is committed to ensuring the compatibility of all your medications, including over-the-counter and natural health products, with your antidepressant. It’s crucial to seek their advice before using such products.

For those on multiple medications, you can coordinate with our pharmacy team to align the renewal dates of your antidepressant with other prescribed medications. Additionally, you have the option to synchronize prescription renewals for all family members, streamlining the process for your convenience.