How To Get Antidepressants In South Africa

What is Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are medications used to treat major depressive disorder, some anxiety disorders, some chronic pain conditions, and to help manage some addictions.

Common side-effects of antidepressants include dry mouth, weight gain, dizziness, headaches, sexual dysfunction, and emotional blunting.

Below is How To Get Antidepressants In South Africa

Many antidepressants can be prescribed by your doctor. But some can only be prescribed if you are supervised by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist.

These information pages usually refer to ‘your doctor’ prescribing this medication. They are the most likely person to prescribe you these drugs.

Do Over the Counter Antidepressants Exist?

There are no FDA-approved antidepressants available over the counter. Antidepressants need to be prescribed by a doctor because they aren’t right for everyone and may interact negatively with certain medications and medical conditions.

When you start a new depression medication you may experience side effects and should be closely monitored by your prescribing physician to ensure your health and safety.

How much are antidepressants in South Africa?

An antidepressant drug that has a maximum price of R607.50 has a generic equivalent for R101. 18

How do I get prescribed an antidepressant?

Many antidepressants can be prescribed by your doctor .But some can only be prescribed if you are supervised by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist.

These information pages usually refer to ‘your doctor’ prescribing this medication. They are the most likely person to prescribe you these drugs.

Do antidepressants Make You Happy?

They are not ‘happy drugs’

Antidepressants help relieve the symptoms of depression and associated anxiety. They do not make you euphoric, but simply help you react more realistically in your emotional responses.

How do I know if I need antidepressants?

Why might your doctor recommend antidepressants? Your doctor might suggest that you try antidepressants if:

You have tried counselling and lifestyle changes, and they haven’t worked. Your symptoms are bad enough that they interfere with your daily life.