Current Medical Treatments for Depression

Depression is an illness in which an alteration of brain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, has occurred. Changes in the levels of these neurotransmitters have been strongly linked to one\'s mood and behavior. Anti-depressants are thought to correct some of the chemical imbalances present in a depressive illness. There are various classes of anti depressant drugs. Once medication is started it is continued for at last 3-12 months or longer. Premature cessation of the medications can cause a relapse of the syndrome. Generally these medications are slowly tapered off to allow the body to make an adjustment.

There are approximately 20 anti-depressants currently available and approved for the treatment of depression. Anti-depressants are generally classified by the chemical properties of the drug. The drugs are classified as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) or Monamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). The tricyclics and MAOIs have been around for more than 40 years and are just as effective as the newer SSRIs. However, their use has declined because of their potent side effects. However, some patients do tolerate these medications very well and in such cases, there is no reason to change the medication to the newer ones. These anti-depressant medications can be quite unpredictable, and for some unknown reason, not all individuals have the same response. There is a lot of trial and error required in selecting the best medication for an individual.

The major types of antidepressant drugs include:

-Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). These were the first drugs used to treat depression. Besides treating the depression, the medications are excellent for neuropathic pain control and inducing sleep. Because of their side effects, the use of these drugs has declined today. Side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, increased fatigue and sleepiness, weight gain, muscle twitching (tremors), constipation, bladder problems such as urine retention, dizziness, daytime drowsiness, increased heart rate and decreased libido.

-Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are another class of older antidepressants. These drugs are most effective in people with depression who do not respond to other treatments. However, they do have some side effects which can be life threatening. Eating foods which contain cheese, beverages like wine, and medications can interact with an MAOI. For this reason these anti-depressants are now becoming history. Serious side effects may include headache, fast heart rate, chest pain, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting.

-Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the drugs of choice to treat depression. They work by altering the amount of a chemical in the brain called serotonin. Decreased libido including low sex drive or inability to have an orgasm are common but reversible side effects. Other problems include dizziness, headaches, nausea, insomnia and feeling jittery.

-Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are another newer form of antidepressant medicine. They treat depression by increasing availability of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. Side effects include drowsiness, blurred vision, lightheadedness, strange dreams, constipation, fever/chills, headache, increased or decreased appetite, tremor, dry mouth and nausea.

Note: Statements in this article may not be approved by the FDA, and should not be considered as professional medical advice.

2007, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Kathy is a professional published freelance writer and commercial stock photographer living in Southeast New Mexico USA. Visit ElectronicPerceptions.com to see some of her latest photography, and to read more of her excellent content too.

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