Main types of medication
NIMH groups mental health medications into several types: antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, stimulants for ADHD and narcolepsy, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers such as lithium. A prescriber chooses among them based on your diagnosis, your medical history and the other medications you take. Medication is often combined with psychotherapy or other therapies rather than used alone.
Why it can take several tries
Medications affect people differently. NIMH notes that finding the best option with the fewest side effects may take several tries, and that adjusting the dose or the timing of a dose can help. This is a normal part of treatment and not a sign that something has gone wrong. Keep notes between visits so the next conversation starts from facts: what you took, when, and what you noticed.
- Date you started and any dose changes.
- Side effects, and when in the day they happen.
- Sleep, appetite and energy changes.
- Anything else you started or stopped, including supplements.
How long they take to work
NIMH says antidepressants often take 4 to 8 weeks to show their full effect and that antipsychotics may take up to 6 weeks. Common side effects of antidepressants, such as upset stomach, headache or sexual problems, are usually mild and often fade. Rare but serious risks, such as serotonin syndrome from certain drug combinations, are why your prescriber needs your full medication list.
Monitoring and safety
Some medications need regular checks. NIMH lists lithium, which requires monitoring of blood levels and of kidney and thyroid function, and clozapine, which requires regular blood tests. Young people taking antidepressants should be watched closely for changes in suicidal thoughts or behavior. If you notice that or any sudden change, contact the prescriber promptly, and use the crisis resources if you are in danger.
Stopping a prescribed medication abruptly, even when you feel better, can cause unpleasant or harmful effects, so any reduction should be planned with a provider who can lower the dose gradually. Never take or share someone else's prescription.
FDA information
The FDA oversees drug safety and publishes medication guides for prescription drugs. You can report serious side effects or product problems to FDA MedWatch online or by phone and sign up for its safety alerts. Bring your pharmacy's medication guide to your visit if you have questions about a specific drug.
To find an office that offers medication management, browse the directory, and see your first psychiatry visit for what to bring.
Common questions
How long does an antidepressant take to work?
NIMH says antidepressants often take 4 to 8 weeks to show their full effect, so patience matters. Keep your follow-up visits and report side effects rather than stopping on your own.
Can I stop a medication once I feel better?
Do not stop a prescribed medication abruptly, even when you feel better. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant or harmful effects. A provider can lower the dose gradually.
Can I take someone else's prescription?
No. Never take or share another person's prescription. Medications affect people differently and need a prescriber who knows your history.
Where can I report a serious side effect?
The FDA runs MedWatch, where serious side effects and product problems can be reported online or by phone. Tell your prescriber as well.