Be sure you have the correct dosage: Doctors generally begin with a low dose of medication to allow your body to adjust to it, and increase the dosage as necessary. Early in your treatment, your doctor may want to meet with you more frequently to monitor your response to the medication and adjust your prescription. Work with your doctor to make sure your dosage is not too low or too high to be effective. Be patient as your dosage is adjusted. It may take some time to find the right dosage for you, but don’t lose hope. Different dosages work for different people.
Find out about different types of medication. Your doctor may need to prescribe a different type of medication, or add another medication. Keep a record of what you take and how you feel to help with future choices. There are several types (or classes) of medication that are prescribed to help with mood disorder symptoms. Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants, mood stabilizers (sometimes called anticonvulsants), antipsychotics (sometimes called neuroleptics or described as atypical) or a combination of these to help control your symptoms. These medications are not addictive and do not change your personality. Follow your doctor’s instructions about how to take medications and any foods, beverages, other medications or natural/ herbal supplements that you need to avoid.
Take medication as prescribed. To help you remember to take your medications, you might want to use an alarm, pager, or pre-fillable medication container. You can also keep a written checklist, ask someone to remind you, or take medication at the same time as another daily activity.
Talk with your doctor about side effects. Sometimes side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, sleepiness, or blurred vision can keep you from feeling better. Side effects may go away within days or weeks. It may help to change the time you take your medication, take it with food, or ask your doctor to change the dosage or add a medication. Your doctor may also be able to help you find another medication or treatment option with fewer side effects. Never stop taking your medication or change your dosage without first talking to your doctor. If side effects cause you to become very ill, contact your doctor or a hospital emergency room right away.
Avoid medication interactions. Make sure your doctors know all the medications you are taking for all illnesses, so they do not interact.
