Because they made so many mistakes in my treatment over the years. They just have to make an educated guess about what might work for you. Can you say "guinea pig"? They don't really know and just start trying a drug and switching to another or a combo until they find something that seems to work. Sometimes if you are on a drug long-term, it quits working. Sometimes a drug only does half the job but it is better than not being able to function at all.
I was once put on a drug (mao inhibitor). I woke up about 8 times a night, felt like laying down in the park and finally lost control of my bladder. I had to threaten to get a lawyer if I had to take any more of that. How many sick people have the courage to take on a powerful doctor? They have the power to throw you in a state hospital if you don't cooperate in taking your meds and the courts back them up.
It depends on the illness. People with schizophrenia are particularly at the mercy of their doctors.
I suffer with anxiety/depression with some ocd behavior which is difficult to treat.
In the beginning, I took whatever they dished out without questioning any of it. Neither did my family because everyone is frightened of and for a family member who suffers from psychological disorders. And everybody trusts doctors.
I shudder to think what they are doing to some helpless people who are unable to articulate what is going on inside or are in nursing homes, etc. People should *always* have a second or third opinion and *never* trust one primary care giver, even if there can be some conflict over professional turf in the process.
Doctors make mistakes so the Internet is more appealing to you?
Personally I am taking Paxil, because I explained to my Doctor that I have been having trouble sleeping since my aortic dissection surgery.
I felt that the 20mgs was too strong for me and I self medicated to 10mgs and with the approval of my Doctor all is well.
Point being, if you are dissatisfied with treatment by your doctor, why would you go to the Internet for comfort in knowing that your treatment would be better?
Unless of course, for some personal reason you have a distaste for proved medical service I would recommend that you seek another Doctor before going to the Internet when it is your health that is at stake.