Depression refers to a mental condition characterized by such symptoms as sadness, trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating, suicidal thoughts and agitation. Additional symptoms of depression include loss of libido (sex drive) and fatigue. Fortunately, common medications for depression exist to treat these symptoms.
Escitalopram
Escitalopram is antidepressant medication that specifically belongs to the class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Specifically, this medication acts on a chemical in the brain called serotonin.
Drugs.com reports that escitalopram's milder side effects include weight changes, nausea, heartburn, constipation and stomach problems. It can also lead to gas, a lowered sex drive, changes in weight and drowsiness. Notify a physician if escitalopram's common effects remain for more than five days.
Escitalopram's serious side effects include muscle stiffness, vomiting, a poor appetite, nausea, confusion and memory problems. This drug can also lead to a lack of coordination, difficulty concentrating, shallow breathing and fainting. Call a doctor if these effects emerge.
Escitalopram is a tablet or liquid taken daily as prescribed.
Bupropion
Drugs.com indicates that bupropion is another medication used to treat depression. It is an antidepressant that also works in the brain to reduce depressive symptoms by acting on dopamine.
Bupropion's less-concerning side effects include include nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, a skin rash and dizziness. This drug can also cause constipation, a dry mouth, a headache or a migraine. Appetite changes and changes in weight are some of buproprion's other side effects.
Buproprion is available as an extended-release tablet that is taken daily.
Paroxetine
Paroxetine is another medication used to manage depression. It is also a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that works to balance the chemical serotonin in the brain.
The National Institutes of Health indicates that paroxetine's less-concerning effects include confusion, forgetfulness, a headache, weakness, yawning and sweating. This drug can also lead to throat tightness, a cough, flushing and problems with the teeth. Sometimes, paroxetine can lead to heartburn, stomach pain and flushing. Tell a doctor if paroxetine's common effects last for more than a week.
Paroxetine's serious effects include blurry vision, a sore throat, fever, painful urination and itching. This drug can also lead to trouble breathing, chest pain, a pounding heartbeat, bloody vomit, and black or bloody stools. Sometimes paroxetine can also lead to sweating, muscle stiffness, hallucinations and confusion. Notify a doctor if paroxetine leads to these effects.
Paroxetine is a liquid, tablet or controlled-release tablet that is typically taken each day or as prescribed.
