Quick Answer
Most antidepressants take 4 to 6 weeks to reach full effect, with some improvement noticeable in the first 2 to 3 weeks. Sleep and energy often respond before mood does. We schedule a follow-up 2 to 4 weeks after starting a new medication so we can manage side effects, adjust the dose, or switch agents if needed — not wait three months hoping it works.
This question comes up frequently for patients researching depression treatment at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.