Why should I see my doctor regularly if I'm taking antidepressants?

If you are taking antidepressants, it's important to see your doctor every couple of weeks when first prescribed, then regularly to monitor your progress. Watch as I discuss how often you should see your doctor and why.

If medication for depression is necessary, expect to have regular appointments with the physician who prescribed the medication, especially when starting a new treatment. This allows the physician to assess whether the medication is working and to identify adverse effects. In some cases, doses may be increased or decreased. The "perfect medication" in the "perfect dosage" is rarely prescribed the first time. Clearly, the successful treatment of depression requires patience and cooperation from both the prescribing physician and patient.