Q: My 41 years old daughter has developed a skin problem 1.5 years back. She is in chronic depression as the problem is not curable. She was taking Venexin 75 mg and Daxid 50 mg for a few months. She was also given Paxidep but it a few results. She is not taking any medication for the last 6-7 months. Now she has developed a phobia to light. How can we help her come out of this? What are benefits and side effects of medications she was taking?

A:Regular medications with cognitive behaviour therapy are effective in treating anxiety and depressive illnesses. Medications are chosen as per the illness and patient profile and have been shown to be effective along with the therapy. Some medications have an effect on weight but this is not true for all medications. I suggest you consult a psychiatrist and clinical psychologist in your city.