# How long do antidepressants take to work?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-long-do-antidepressants-take-to-work
For: Patients | Mental health care | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Antidepressants usually start to have an effect within one to two weeks but can take up to eight weeks to work fully, so keep taking them as prescribed. Some side effects appear early and often ease. Your doctor should review you regularly in the first weeks. If you feel no better after several weeks, or feel worse, talk to your prescriber rather than changing the dose yourself.

Sources: NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/antidepressants/overview

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