Breakthrough depression occurs when a new episode of depression comes up that’s not responsive to the prescribed antidepressants. Or if the medication just stops working altogether.
Antidepressants can work wonders for people struggling with a low mood, loss of interest in things they once enjoyed, and lack of energy. But, antidepressants are not a miracle cure! There are still lifestyle changes you’ll have to make, and there’s the possibility that the antidepressant can stop working.
Research suggests that up to 33 percent of people have their symptoms return when taking antidepressants. Let’s explore the factors that can make antidepressants less effective, and cause breakthrough depression.
Drug or Alcohol Use
Depression and substance use go hand in hand. People who suffer from symptoms of depression are more likely to use drugs or alcohol to ease their pain. However, taking drugs or alcohol with antidepressants can be a dangerous combination that worsens your mood swings.
Here are some reasons why it’s bad to mix drugs and alcohol with antidepressant medications:
- Drugs and alcohol can counteract the effects of the medication, making your symptoms more difficult to treat.
- Drugs and alcohol create their own side effects and can cause you to feel more depressed or anxious.
- Many antidepressants have more serious side effects when taken with other substances.
- You may be at risk for serious complications by combining drugs or alcohol and antidepressants, such as a dangerous spike in blood pressure.
New Stressors
Life is always moving, which means new stressors can develop. If you move to a new location or start a new job, the stress of this change can be too much for your medication to handle. This happens because your brain undergoes new changes that counteract the effects of your antidepressants, causing breakthrough depression.
Pregnancy
With all the changes happening during pregnancy, it’s possible for the antidepressants to stop working with your new chemistry. You may need to adjust your dose or try a new medication altogether. Always talk to your doctor about starting or stopping a medication while pregnant.
Underlying Medical Condition
A new medical condition can also cause your antidepressant to be less effective, such as thyroid disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, hepatitis C or cancer. Not only can the stress of these conditions cause breakthrough depression, but they can also make it harder for the medication to work correctly.
Other Medications
It’s also important to take inventory of your medications and ensure that no drugs interact. For example, if your doctor puts you on steroids or anti-platelet medications, they can interfere with certain antidepressants. Going to the same pharmacy makes it easier to alert you of potential drug interactions.
There are Many Ways to Treat Depression.
These are some of the most common factors that can make antidepressants less effective and cause breakthrough depression. However, it’s also possible that your body could grow tolerant to the drug over time, which means you may have to increase your dose or try a new medication.
Take note of your symptoms, so that your doctor can better understand your moods. The important thing to know is that there are many ways to treat depression, and that with the right combination of lifestyle changes, therapy and medication, you can lead a happy and full life.
Contact Awakenings Treatment Center Today.
