Since isoniazide, a drug designed to fight tuberculosis, first was reported in 1953 as having a significant effect upon depression, medical researchers have been trying to make other medicines for people with the condition. Although its successor, iproniazid, was pulled form the market in 1961, monoamine oxidase inhibitors still are used for depression, along with many other types of drugs.
Nardil (MAOI)
The generic monoamine oxidase inhibitor phenelzine is marketed in the United States as Nardil. It is among the group of MAOIs, the oldest form of prescription antidepressant medicine. It functions by preventing the action of monoamine oxidase, which is a human nervous system chemical substance. MAOIs typically are used in treatment only when other, newer medications have failed to relieve the depression. This is because MAOIs have many side effects and can be dangerous. Most often, these types of drugs can affect sexual activity by decreasing the sex drive or sexual performance. They also can prevent erections and orgasms in men. They also can have mental side effects and even cause seizures in some people, although these are less common side effects.
Tofranil (Tricyclic or TCA)
Tricyclics came along following MAOIs. One of the brands for the generic tricyclic imipramine is Tofranil. Tricyclics raise the amount of chemicals in the brain via the central nervous system, the Mayo Clinic reports. There also are many side effects associated with Tofranil and other tricyclics. Among the most serious of these are convulsions, depression and falling into a coma.
Zoloft (SSRI)
Along with treating depression, Zoloft (generic: sertraline) also may be prescribed for people suffering from social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. It is an SSRI, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, that works to make the neurotransmitter serotonin more active in the brain. The most common serious side effects of Zoloft are sexual. In men, it may prevent ejaculation. In both sexes, it may lower the interest in or performance of sex.
Effexor (SSNRI)
Effexor (generic: venlafaxine) is an SSNRI or selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Like SSRIs, Effexor raises the level of activity of serotonin in the brain, but also raises the activity level of norepinephrine. Along with treating mental depression, Effexor also may be used for people with anxiety disorders and hot flashes. It, too, can decrease sex drive, as well as cause the serious side effect of hypertension as well as headaches and blurry vision.
