Development of fatigue on antidepressants. What does it mean?
Mant patients after a period of time on antidepressants develop considerable fatigue and apathy, described by a lack of motivation, energy and a feeling of just “wanting to sit on the couch.”
What does this mean?
For starters it could represent a side effect of could represent a worsening of symptoms.
What can be done?
1) decrease the dose to see if apathy or fatigue resolves
2) switch to dose in evening
3) add a stimulant–bupropion, modafanil
4) change to a TCA not associated with apathy
5) add abilify
6) if insomnia develops with the antidepressant, adding trazodone or remeron for a more restful sleep may help