I have, among other things, treatment resistant depression. I have tried 5 different antidepressants - none have helped. I am currently on Strattera for ADHD. One week in, my depression was gone. No euphoria or mania, I was just better! For three days. On the evening of the third day, it was like I could feel the medication stop working - the depression came back. I’ve been on it for 4 weeks now - I’m still depressed.
Why did it go away, and why did it come back?! Has anyone else experienced this, with this or any other medication(s)? Anyone have any idea why this would happen?
Now I’m back to looking at more extreme measures, like ketamine, ECT, or TMS if I can’t figure this out.
Atomoxetine - Depression went away, then came back?
Question posted by jennkitten on 12 July 2022
Last updated on 12 July 2022
Answers
WildcatVet
12 July 2022
Hi, jennkitten!
So sorry that you're struggling! Several things come to mind. Are you taking a low initial dose? Have you given it sufficient time to become fully effective? Could your initial improvement been due to the placebo effect? Are you taking it along with another antidepressant? Have you tried adding Abilify or Rexulti to an antidepressant?
Could a dosage adjustment be beneficial?
Lots of questions... you should consider talking with your health care provider and letting them know exactly how you're feeling right now. It's important to stay in touch with your doctor during this initial adjustment period and continue to get professional advice.
Best regards and I hope you can get to feeling better soon.
jennkitten
12 July 2022
Low initial dose followed by an increase after the first week. It’s been 4 weeks - the pharmacist said it should take 2 weeks to notice if it’s working. Definitely not placebo effect - I’ve taken so many meds trying to fix it with no success, so no real hope that any drug will work. No, I’m not taking any other antidepressants, nor have I tried adding the ones you mentioned. I don’t know about the dosage change; I plan to ask this with other questions at next week’s appointment.
WildcatVet
12 July 2022
There is hope! I have TRD and I've found my answer even though it took a while to get the right combination of medications. Don't give up... that's partly your depression talking and you still have very many options.
Hang in there. You'll be alright.
Related topics
strattera, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), atomoxetine, antidepressant, treatment, antidepressants
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