Changing Medications (Depression)

Updated on January 13, 2011
S.H. asks from Harvest, AL
10 answers

My doctor (OBGYN) put me on a prescription for depression a couple months ago. I think it has been helping, but after the first month the only side effect that has stuck around is loss of appetite. I already didn't each much at meals before, now it's worse!! I think I've already lost a few pounds. Which, for some people I'm sure that wouldn't be a bad thing, but I don't have any pounds to lose!

It's my fault now that I have not gotten in contact with my doctor to ask about it. I just tried calling a few mins ago (4:45pm) only to remember that they close at 4:30, AND they are closed on Thursdays...of course! lol So now I have to remember to call on Friday before they close at noon!

My question is, is this a type of situation where they could just call in a different prescription? I really don't want to have to make an appointment for who knows when just to try something different... lol

Just wondering what to expect them to tell me when I get in touch with them... while I kick myself for not calling sooner!! :)

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So What Happened?

Thanks for the responses!

Just thought I would add, my depression is not from post partum or PMS related issues. I had been tired all the time with no motivation to do much. We've had a stressful year (jobs, money, etc), and now my husband is deployed, leaving me to take care of our almost 5 year old daughter. I'm hoping maybe we'll be able to wean me off medication after he comes home... or after he finds a job after coming home! haha

And the medicine I'm taking is Bupropion, a generic of Wellbutrin.

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M.R.

answers from Columbus on

Was this for post partum or PMS related issues? If not, I would suggest that you visit a psychiatrist. They are truly the best at prescribing these medications and know what side effects you can expect. Weight gain is much more of an issue for antidepressants than weight loss, so you have a great many choices if that is not an issue for you. Why you would be prescribed one with that side effect is beyond me, more reason to see someone who specializes in these medications.

M.

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J.N.

answers from Salt Lake City on

I would really ask for a referral to a psychiatrist. OB/GYNs are great for delivering babies and taking care of reproductive systems. But they don't have the depth of experience in dealing with depression, especially since this could involve experimenting with meds.

You wouldn't hesitate to go to a dermatologist for serious skin issues, or an orthopedic specialist for a broken bone. It's no different going to a psychologist for mental health; it doesn't mean your crazy or anything. And a psychologist is a medical doctor, they just have spent their residency and following years in mental health. Plus, he can connect you with a councilor which, I know from experience, can have as much (or sometimes more) to do with making your way back to health than the meds alone.

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M.P.

answers from Portland on

It depends on the doctor whether or not he'll want to see you before changing medication.

I agree with Martha that it might be better to see a specialist for anti-depressant medication. I see a nurse practitioner whose entire practice is focused on medication issues. You can ask the doctor for a referral if you don't know of anyone. He has always wanted to see me before changing medications.

If you have insurance that will pay for a psychiatrist that is the best option.

It is also possible that your ob/gyn has taken the time to learn more than the basics about medications. If that's the case, he can be helpful.

You didn't say which medication you're on. Do not stop taking it cold turkey. It's especially more dangerous for some than for others than for others. The doctor will tell you how to wean yourself off of one and get started with a new one.

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R.D.

answers from Kansas City on

I would see a psychiatrist (or at least your PCP), not an OBGYN, for 'mental meds.' The brain is tricky to diagnose, there are many factors, and there is some trial and error with meds (unless they do some brain scans to 'look' at what is out of balance). I think it is rare for the 'right' meds to be perscribed the first time. Do not stop taking them until you talk to your doctor - or preferably a psychiatrist. (Call local United Way 211 service to find one that takes your insurance.)

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M.R.

answers from Chicago on

Absolutely agree with Julia N.

I'm sure your obgyn is a wonderful and competent doctor but you really ought to see a psychiatrist. If you had a choice would you want your ob or a psychiatrist deliver your baby? Sure both have medical degrees and are completely capable of doing this but the ob is the better choice. As a result, you should ask for a referral for a psychiatrist as they are better versed in mental-health issues.

Maybe do some research tomorrow and try to find a psychiatrist in your area or you could wait until Friday to speak with your doctor. At any rate, thumbs up to you for being so in touch with your mind and your body to recognize these changes and feeling empowered to do something about it.

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J.F.

answers from Philadelphia on

It depends, some dr's want to see you when they change meds. Just make a note and leave it where you will see it and not loose it. I hope the new med works for you.

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G.T.

answers from Modesto on

usually you get your appetite back after a couple of months.

1 mom found this helpful

K.V.

answers from Lansing on

Most of the time when they change medication they will gradually ween you down from the one, until you are completely off it and start you on a new one.

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E.A.

answers from Erie on

This is a common side effect of Welbutrin. How is it working otherwise? If it's working well, talk to him about adjusting the time you take it during the day, or ask him for advice about food that will stimulate your appetite.

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L.

answers from Mobile on

It can be so tricky to find an antidepressant that works, I'm thinking your doc might try to work on the weight/eating issue instead. So many side effects can be truly unbearable, I'd hestitate to switch if it's working and that's it. As many have said though, a good specialist would be good to consult. Perhaps he/she would add another med at a lower dose to help w/the weight appetite issue. Hang in there, and eat some avocado and nuts while you're waiting. ;-)

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