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Thinking of taking an antidepressant

Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: Aug 18 11:19am | Replies (14)

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@roch

@scottbeammeup,

The decision to take anti-depression might be scary, but it might make a big difference. I was already on anti-depression drugs and stable, then I started a cancer drugs and it made me cry constantly. It was not the cancer, it was drug because as soon as changed drug, the crying went away.

My sister was also on cancer drug, had similar problem and her oncologist prescribed anti-depression if it definitely helped her.

You should definitely talk with your provider. Mention your concern about sexual dysfunction, there are many different anti-depression drugs and the provider should be able to suggest one that will help. If provider is not familiar with all the options, ask for a referral to psychiatrists who will be more up to date with different options. Also, ask about any interactions it may have with other medications your taking.

Also, you may start at one dosage and have to adjust if not working. It does take weeks sometime to see improvement. Unfortunately, sometimes anti-depression drugs are trial and error, so if first does not work, do not give up, let provider know so can change accordingly.

The ability to stop once you start will depends on drug your taking. Do not stop taking any med without consulting your provider.

Have you discuss the side effects with your oncologist?

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Replies to "@scottbeammeup, The decision to take anti-depression might be scary, but it might make a big difference...."

Thanks for the info. Yes, the oncologist's attitude is that it's one of the normal side effects and that's just how it goes for some people. He said he was sorry I was having this side effect but that's about it. He's been very good about treating my PHYSICAL side effects (Gabapentin for hot flashes, Flowmax for urinary issues) but is kind of brushing aside the mental ones.