Antidepressant medications

Depression is a very common problem. Studies indicate that between 5 and 20 percent of people will suffer from depression at some time in their lives. Some people are at higher risk. These include females and people with chronic illnesses such as migraines, back pain, peptic ulcers, or a recent heart attack. People with a personal history or a family history of drug abuse or depression are also at higher risk.

Depression is both a physical and a psychological disorder. It affects chemicals in the brain. How we think and how we act also have effects on depression. Depression can be treated with antidepressant medications and with psychotherapy.

There are three main types of antidepressant medicines. The oldest class is known as MAO Inhibitors, or monamine oxidase inhibitors. These drugs take several weeks to begin working. MAO Inhibitors have largely been replaced by the newer antidepressants. Examples of MAO Inhibitors include: Eutonyl, Eutron, Furoxone, Marplan, Matulane, Nardil, and Parnate.

Because of the possibility of adverse effects, people on MAO Inhibitors need to avoid:

• certain meats and fishes
• some vegetables
• some dairy products and
• all alcoholic beverages

MAO Inhibitors also interact with a number of prescription and over- the-counter medications. If you are placed on a MAO Inhibitor, your healthcare provider will discuss this with you.

Another class of antidepressant medicines is the tricyclic antidepressants. You may have to take these medications for up to four to six weeks before you feel an effect. Some of the tricyclics are amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine (Tofranil), doxepin (Sinequan), desipramine (Norpramin), and trazodone (Desyrel). One of the most common side effects with these is dry mouth. These drugs can also interact with a number of over- the-counter and prescription medications. However, there are no dietary restrictions, with their use.

The newest class of antidepressants is called "serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors." You may feel a benefit from these medications in as little as two to three weeks. This class includes medications with trade names such as Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, and Effexor and they interact with few other medications. One of the more common side effects of these antidepressants is difficulty in reaching orgasm.

Antidepressants can be very helpful for people suffering from depression. Like all medications, it is important to take them exactly as prescribed. Never take someone else's medications.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MEDI3133.RF2 VRS# 6705 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.