When you take depression medicine, having some side effects is pretty common...
but they shouldn't stop you from taking your medicine.
Many eventually go away... often within a few weeks.
And if you keep taking your medicine, there's a good chance you'll start to feel less depressed.
So here are some tips to help you manage some of the most common side effects. Constipation: Drink plenty of water.
Eat bran or other whole-grain, high-fiber fruits and vegetables.
Things like apples, beans, and broccoli. Diarrhea: Avoid spicy or fatty foods.
Eat things low in fiber like applesauce, rice, and yogurt.
Dry Mouth: Sip water throughout the day, and chew sugarless gum or candy.
Nausea: Take your medicine at night. Eat several smaller meals a day.
And chew peppermint candy or gum. Peppermint helps to calm your stomach.
Sleep Problems: If your medicine keeps you awake, try taking it in the morning.
Make your bedroom quiet, cool, and dark. Use earplugs and a sleep mask.
Don't exercise close to bedtime. And stay away from caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol.
If your medicine makes you sleepy, take it at night.
Sex Problems: You may be able to lower your dose or take a different medicine. Ask your doctor.
And that's actually true for all side effects. If they really bother you and none of these tips help, talk with your doctor about changing your dose or switching medicines.
And never stop taking your depression medicine without talking to your doctor first.
