It depends on the medication and your symptoms, but a typical timeline is:
- First few days: some people notice early changes in sleep or anxiety, but side effects can also show up first.
- 2–4 weeks: gradual improvement is more common (for example, fewer “bad days” or slightly better mood and motivation).
- 4–8 weeks: the full benefit is often clearer, and we can decide whether to continue, adjust the dose, or consider an alternative.
If you feel significantly worse, have new troubling symptoms, or have thoughts of self-harm, please seek urgent help immediately (call 999 or go to A&E).