What If Depression Medication Isn't Giving You Enough Relief?
When symptoms continue, the next step is not necessarily “just try another medication.” A broader treatment conversation may be appropriate.
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Tell us about your treatment history and symptoms. A consultation is an evaluation, not a commitment — and it starts with your story.
There Are Different Reasons Medication May Not Feel Successful
Several factors can affect how medication works, including:
- Side effects that make a full dose difficult to tolerate
- Inadequate response despite an adequate trial
- Partial response with lingering symptoms
- Difficulty tolerating medication
- Not having completed an adequate treatment trial
- Other symptoms complicating the picture
None of this means you have not tried hard enough. It means the treatment conversation may benefit from broadening.
Medication Decisions Should Be Made With Your Prescriber
Do not stop or change prescribed psychiatric medication without speaking with your prescribing healthcare provider. Adherence and medication changes are clinical decisions made together with your prescriber.
Curious whether you'd qualify?
If you've tried medication and you're still not yourself, you may be a candidate for SAINT®. Our team will give you a straight answer.
When Additional Treatment Options May Be Discussed
Depending on the individual, options may include:
- Psychotherapy
- Medication adjustments through your prescribing provider
- TMS
- Accelerated TMS for appropriate candidates
- Other clinician-recommended options
What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Treatment-resistant depression generally refers to depression that has not responded adequately to one or more adequate antidepressant trials. It is a clinical category describing the treatments, not a verdict on the person experiencing them.
Where TMS Fits Into Depression Care
TMS is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that may be considered for eligible patients after clinical evaluation, often when depression has not responded adequately to prior treatment.
Learn about TMS therapy. · Learn about accelerated TMS / SAINT. · Check your insurance options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do antidepressants usually take to work?
What is a partial response to an antidepressant?
What if side effects make medication difficult?
Should I stop medication if I am interested in TMS?
What is treatment-resistant depression?
Is TMS medication-free?
Does insurance cover TMS?
Ready to talk to someone?
The hardest part is usually the first phone call. Everything after that is a series of small, defined steps.
The Next Step Isn't Necessarily Just Another Medication
If medication hasn't provided enough relief, a broader treatment conversation can help you understand what options may be appropriate.