Hi Mom:

Meds can stop working for depression in anyone, but it is not unusual for adolescents to find that happening earlier and more frequently. Prozac and other SSRI's can be useful for a few years, then people often "graduate" to a SSNRI, such as Effexor or Cymbalta. Since he was very young when he started, he may have to "grow through" medications until he finds one that will work longer.

There are two concerns that I would have for your son. Boys, when depressed, often aren't willing to tell others when they are having "bad" thoughts. I do hope he's in some kind of counseling. If not, I strongly suggest you get him into therapy with a professional. You can find one at Psychology Today. And, don't take "no" for an answer. I know that boys can be difficult to get into therapy, but once they are there with a professional who they can relate with, they never seem to stop talking! That's a great thing. I love treating adolescents because I find them so very easy to work with.

My other concern is that we have seen a rise in children hurting themselves while taking antidepressants. That is by no means to say that they shouldn't be medicated, but they should be in therapy while medicated.

Best of Luck,

Dr. Diana Walcutt

*Dr. Walcutt is a Psychologist. Dr. Walcutt's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.