Is it normal to still have bouts of depression...

[M R alan]

...after three weeks on citalopram?

[ecooper32]

it can take longer than 3 weeks for them to work,it can also get worse before it gets better.

[topcat1]

Absolutely. Citalopram does not reach it's maximum effect until 6 weeks after commencing the drug so it will be a gradual improvement. It is in fact a very effective drug without many of the negative effects of some other anti-depressants. So do not give up on it yet. I would suggest you try it for six months and if you still find no positive effect, then go back to your GP/prescriber to discuss a possible alternative.You will also need to to make changes in your life in order to tackle your depression. Whilst it is difficult to find the motivation to exercise when you are feeling depressed, this is exactly what you need to do to help yourself. Try to go out for a walk in a nearby park or other picturesque area. Try to phone or meet up with a friend at least once a week. Make a list of the things that you are unhappy about in your life and another list of what you can do to change them.And you could ask your GP to refer you to a counsellor at the surgery so that she can support you in the process. Because, however you feel now, things can, and will, get better.

[clairelouise]

yup. Citalopram can take a few weeks to totally settle in.One thing I wish my GP had told me is that you also need "willpower" to beat depression - the tablets arent going to do it themselves. its kinda like trying to give up smoking - you can use patches or gum, but they arent going to make you quit, they just make things easier.hopefully the medication will settle things though for you.if they dont, then dont be afraid to go back and see your GP because there are other sorts of meds that you could take instead.good luck :)

[Leeds Utd]

It can take to to 3 months to start taking effect. I'm on them at the moment and i didn't find they worked well so the doc doubled up my dosage and it seems to be working.Give it time and try to keep your chin upGood Luck :^)