5 Things You Need to Know About Antidepressants

1. Balance the Imbalance

You may not realize it, but your brain contains chemicals, otherwise known as neurotransmitters. Three of these neurotransmitters, Serotonin, Norepinephrine and Dopamine, play a significant role in modulating your mood. When any of these neurotransmitters gets out of balance, you're at risk for developing depression or other mental health problems. Antidepressants play a key role in helping to re establish a healthy balance of neurotransmitters in your brain.

2. Get the Lowdown on Antidepressants

There are three major classes of antidepressants including SSRI's, tricyclics and MAOI's. Additionally, there are newer medications, such as Wellbutrin and Effexor, which don't fall into the previously mentioned categories. You and your doctor need to select the best antidepressant for you, based on your symptoms. To start, your doctor should ask various questions, such as whether you're feeling lethargic, agitated or overly excited. Then, your doctor should recommend an antidepressant that addresses your particular issues. If he doesn't get the specifics about how you're feeling, prior to prescribing an antidepressant, then find another doctor.

3. A Possible Downside to Lifting Your Mood

Like many other medications, antidepressants don't come without side-effects, which vary considerably depending on which antidepressant you're taking. Side effects from tricyclics include dry mouth, blurry vision, constipation, difficulty urinating, impaired thinking and fatigue. SSRI's have fewer reported side effects; however they can cause dry mouth, nausea, nervousness, sleep difficulties, headache and sexual problems. MAOI's, which are less likely to be prescribed, have a long list of side effects, the most severe including high blood pressure, changes in heart rate and dangerous interactions with cold medication and certain foods. One additional thing to watch for is something called "Serotonin Syndrome." This occurs when your brain has too much Serotonin. Symptoms include extreme agitation, confusion, hallucinating, rapid heart beat, poor coordination, rapid fluctuation in blood pressure, elevated temperature, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seizure and coma.

4. Delayed Effects and Dangers

Most antidepressants don't kick in overnight. It can take up to six weeks to feel the full effects, so you'll have to give it time. Work with your doctor to monitor your progress. If you don't improve, your doctor may have you try another antidepressant. While you're waiting for the antidepressant to take effect, especially during the first few weeks of therapy, be on the lookout for severe depression accompanied by suicidal thoughts. Call your doctor immediately if you feel suicidal.

5. Stick With it for the Long Haul

Once you've identified an antidepressant that works, keep taking it. There is a tendency for people to stop taking antidepressants because they feel better. This is dangerous, because you won't feel worse right away. When you do feel the effects, it will be too late to remedy the situation in the short term. Remember that any cessation in your antidepressant regimen should be done under the supervision of your physician, since there may be resulting withdrawal symptoms.