Keep taking the pills

QMy doctor, after years of prescribing me a certain antidepressant, has refused to continue to give me the medication I now need. He says I’ve been on it long enough. I have come off very, very slowly but the problem is that I am getting more and more depressed. And I still haven’t got down to even half my normal dose. I am thinking of going on the internet and buying them there – it seems to be possible. But everyone says that would be madness because pills obtained via the internet can be very dangerous. What do you think?

AJohn Barker, Northants I can’t recommend buying pills on the net, although as someone for whom depression is also a close companion I might myself be very tempted – but only as a last resort. First, I would suggest you return to your doctor and have another try to get your dose increased. If he completely refuses, try to find another doctor at the practice and beg them. Use every trick in the book. Burst into tears. If you feel suicidal, certainly tell them. If the answer’s still ‘no’ – and, who knows, they might change their minds – then, if you can afford it, I’d suggest finding a private psychiatrist and see if you can persuade them. Your doctor will almost certainly want you to try some new concoction, but my advice would be to resist, unless he can convince you that the dangers of continuing outweigh the cost of your living a life of despair. You found a pill that works – one that he put you on in the first place. It is cruel to remove it unless the evidence of damage or risk is absolutely overwhelming.