Which medicine can help me manage my depression?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am presently working in my startup and under too much stress. I am feeling slightly sad/depressed and would like to have some mild medication to help tide me over this stressful period. It is purely work-related, and some days I find it difficult to sleep due to constant thinking about one thing or the other. I panic about small issues. Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your problem and understand your concern. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, they suggest depression. SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) such as Sertraline is helpful in such situations. Also, try regular exercise, adequate sleep, maintain sleep hygiene, avoid alcohol, smoking, etc. Also, rule out thyroid dysfunction by checking T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), and blood sugar levels as a minimum investigation. SSRIs are prescription-only drugs. So, it would help if you had a prescription for the same. I recommend tablet Sertraline 50 mg daily and Benzodiazepine such as Clonazepam 0.5 mg as and when required at night for sleep. But, it is not to be used daily. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.

Thank you.