Prescription Drugs: Medications for Depression


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Researchers agree that in severe cases, medications for depression can be very helpful - even life saving. Research also shows that prescription drugs aren't effective for everyone. A major government study released in 2006 shows less than 50% of people are effectively treated by depression medications. Many who do respond to antidepressants fall back into major depression after a short period. If you suffer from severe depression that is affecting your ability to function, prescription medicines may be right for you.  Exercising, self help or therapy can work just as well for many, without the side effects. Some common prescription drugs used to treat depression include:

SSRIS

The most widely prescribed antidepressants come from a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These include:

  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Paroxetine (Paxil)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Citalopram (Celexa)

SSRIs interact with a chemical in the brain known as serotonin. Serotonin regulates mood and helps with sleep, pain, digestion, bodily functions and mental clarity. Side effects are common in all antidepressant medications, and for many users, the side effects are serious enough to make them stop taking prescription drugs.

Side Effects of SSRIS:

There are also newer medications for depression, called atypical antidepressants. These types of prescription drugs target neurotransmitters either separately or in addition to serotonin. Some of the affected brain chemicals include dopamine and norepinephrine.

Atypical Medications for Depression:

  • Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
  • Venlafaxine (Effexor)
  • Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • Mirtazapine (Remeron)
  • Trazodone (Desyrel)
  • Nefazodone (Serzone)

Side Effects of Atypical Antidepressants:

  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Weight Gain
  • Dry Mouth
  • Blurred Vision
  • Sleepiness
  • Nervousness

Antidepressant Withdrawal

If you've started taking antidepressants, stopping can be a problem. Withdrawal symptoms are typical and can make it difficult to stop using the medication. If you do decide to stop taking prescription drugs for depression, it's important that you slowly wean off of antidepressant dependency or you could suffer unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Always consult your doctor before stopping any antidepressant.

Symptoms of Withdrawal from Depression Medications:

  • Irritability and aggression
  • Depression, mood swings
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Irritability and aggression
  • Insomnia, nightmares
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness, loss of coordination
  • Stomach cramping and pain
  • Electric shock sensations
  • Tremor, muscle spasms
  • Anxiety, Agitation

You should remember that antidepressants aren't a cure. Prescription drugs can treat symptoms of depression but can't change the root causes in your life. In addition to prescription medicines, other effective treatments include stress management, support groups, meditation,
relaxation techniques, exercise and self help steps. Always consult your doctor before using any medications for depression.

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