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Does the action of antidepressants change depending on the time of administration? Experts answer about the correct use of antidepressants
The classes of antidepressants differ and, depending on their active ingredients, could affect the daily life of sufferers. The time you choose to take them ultimately depends on the type of drug you are taking and how your body and mind react to it.
As a general rule, antidepressants without sedating agents should be taken in the morning, while sedating drugs are best taken in the evening. But it also all depends on how your medicine affects you personally, depending on the side effects.
In addition, diet, lifestyle and underlying medical conditions could also account for some of the reasons why antidepressants affect each person differently.
Why take antidepressants in the morning?
You will sleep better at night: Non-sedating antidepressants are specifically made to be taken in the morning because they have energizing properties, notes Dr. Timothy Jeider, a board-certified psychiatrist. In this case, you should insist on taking them in the morning to avoid sleepless nights.
It’s easier to remember to take them: If you include them in your morning routine, even if you forget to take them on time, you can take them throughout the day without missing a dose.
Fewer visits to the toilet: Some antidepressants are diuretics, so you won’t have to rush to the bathroom at night if you plan to take them in the morning hours, thus interrupting your sleep.
Increased libido: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common type of antidepressant, could sometimes stop normal sexual function. So, if you find that your libido has plummeted since starting the meds, consider talking to your doctor about taking them in the morning.
Why take antidepressants at night?
You will sleep better: Trazadone and mirtazapine are two common antidepressants that can cause drowsiness. If drowsiness is a common side effect of your antidepressant, it’s best to take it at night so you can use it to your advantage and fall asleep more easily, notes Dr. Sid Khurana, a board-certified psychiatrist.
You will avoid the feeling of nausea: Nausea is a common side effect of antidepressants, according to the Mayo Clinic, and is caused because they affect certain receptors in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, especially at the beginning of treatment. So, it could be avoided by taking the medicine before going to bed. If, however, nausea persists, consult your doctor about some medication adjustment.
Whatever time frame you choose, however, make sure you don’t break two important rules: take the treatment at the same time every day, and don’t make any adjustments to the dosage or timing without your doctor’s approval.