Zoloft w/Ritalin

I am 39 and have been battling depression in various degrees for the last 25 years.   I have been given all kinds of medications starting in the late 70s, early 80s with tricyclics (?sp), lithium, anti-psychotics, tranquilizers, etc.  My most recent doctor has given me elavil, prozac, zoloft, wellbutrin, serzone and trazadone alone or in varying combinations (over a period of 10 months).  I have had blood work done several times to see if there was something physical going on.  (No.)  The only thing that has ever done anything good for me is the zoloft, which I am taking now 200mg/day (have been for about 5 months).  The only thing is, I feel only a *little* bit better.

I have read and heard about augmenting zoloft with ritalin, and everything I

[HFHS M.D.-SW]

Dear Gueniv,

Ritalin may be used for a short period at low doses for depression if symptoms are severe, until an antidepressant takes effect. Ritalin is not recommended as longterm treatment for depression.
Contact your local hospital for a psychiatrist in the area.
A psychiatrist may consider adding another antidepressant to Zoloft.
It is important to follow up with a psychiatrist in order to address you concerns.


Best Wishes,

HFHS M.D.-SW