Antidepressants are widely used. All antidepressants are associated with side effects, and in this review we therefore find it reasonable to reassess the indication for long-term use at least once a year. After remission of a depressive episode treatment should be continued for 6-9 months, and treatment should be continued longer for two years or more in the presence of risk factors for new depressive episodes. Antidepressants should be discontinued slowly and with caution in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms.