Depression is a disorder in which an individual has major depressive episodes that include symptoms such as loss of interest and pleasure in hobbies or work, sadness, weight changes, and trouble sleeping. Several medications are available for patients.
Preferred Treatment
Medications that are preferred for the treatment of depression include the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, such as venlafaxine and desvenlafaxine. Another class is the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which include citalopram and escitalopram. Buproprion is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor.
Alternative Treatment
Atypical antidepressants include trazodone and mirtazapine, which are usually combined with other antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as doxepin, are used only when other treatment has failed. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which include phenelzine and tranylcypromine, are used as a last resort, explains MayoClinic.com.
Side Effects
Common side effects seen with the antidepressants include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth and nausea. The tricyclic antidepressants exhibit the highest frequencies of adverse events and have the greatest impact on patient compliance, states "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach."
Precautions
Antidepressants pose an increased risk of suicide. If the patient has thoughts about hurting himself or someone else, he should receive medical attention right away.
Precautions
Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should talk to their doctors, as some antidepressants may pose an increased health risk to their unborn child or nursing child.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Major Depression Treatments and Drugs
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
