Depression is a mental disorder characterized by feelings of inadequacy, sadness and a dejected mood. Most doctors choose psychotherapy as the main mode of treatment for depression. Medications are used as an optional treatment to control some of the side effects of the depression while psychotherapy is underway. The best way to choose the proper medication, according to Depression-Guide.com is for the patient and doctor to discuss the options. First-line drugs for depression will then likely be prescribed.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) are listed by Psychology Information Online as the medications that used to be the most prescribed drugs for depression. Some examples of TCAs are nortriptyline, amitriptyline and doxepin. TCAs should be prescribed to patients who need anti-depressive properties as well as sedative effects. USDoctor.com lists the side effects of this class of medication as dry mouth, constipation, heart disorders, suicidal tendencies and sedation.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
The hormone serotonin is an important factor in the development of depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are drugs that affect this hormone and help fight the symptoms of depression. According to US Doctor.com, these drugs are used in patients who do not want the side effects of the TCAs. SSRIs have less systemic effects and do not increase the suicidal tendencies in patients. They have been linked to sexual dysfunction and agitation. Some examples of SSRIs are fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft).
Bupropion
Bupropion is a cyclic drug that, according to USDoctor.com, is unrelated to TCAs and SSRIs. Therefore, patients who are experiencing adverse reactions to the TCAs or SSRIs can turn to bupropion as an alternative. Wellbutrin is a brand of bupropion and is linked to fewer cardiac effects then TCAs and rarely causes sexual dysfunction. Bupropion is also being marketed as well as a drug that helps people quit smoking.
Trazadone
Trazadone is a cyclic drug similar to bupropion, but according to USDoctor.com, is more useful in the treatment of elderly patients because a consistently steady dose can be used. This drug causes sedation but without the side effects of TCAs. Multiple doses must be taken throughout the day; this drug should not be used in patients with pre-existing heart disease.
Lithium
Lithium is the most effective drug for depression in patients with bipolar disorder. According to Depressionguide.com, lithium is the best drug for balancing the mood swings of the patient. This drug is dangerous due to the fact that its toxic levels are so close to its therapeutic levels, so constant monitoring is necessary.
