Guide To The Most Common Antidepressants

Serotonin And Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors

Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are quite self-explanatory. This antidepressant increases serotonin and norepinephrine. In addition to depression treatment, these drugs may be prescribed to treat chronic pain, especially pain that stems from the body's nerves. They are used to treat diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, low back pain, and pain from osteoarthritis as well. This type of medication is also beneficial in the treatment of social phobia, panic disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Two examples of SNRIs are venlafaxine and duloxetine. Patients taking this type of antidepressant could experience side effects such as constipation, dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

These drugs can also increase blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. They may cause low blood pressure upon standing as well. In rare cases, patients who use SNRIs have reported seizures. They may also reduce the levels of sodium in the blood, especially in the elderly and patients who take diuretics. Some could worsen existing liver issues, or increase blood pressure in certain patients. Patients who use these medicines may need to have their blood pressure, blood glucose, and liver function monitored regularly.

Discover more types of antidepressants now.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) were introduced in the 1950s. These medications are typically prescribed today after other antidepressants have been tried first. Examples of MAOIs include tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, and selegiline. The effects of this type of antidepressant often take up to three weeks to be felt by the patient. They are generally continued for at least six months after the patient's depression resolves. MAOIs are especially beneficial for patients who have atypical depression. Those with this condition have features that are inconsistent with other recognized types of depression. They may include a heavy feeling in the arms and legs, excessive drowsiness, and an improvement in symptoms if a positive event occurs in the patient's life.

While taking MAOIs, patients should not consume any foods or drinks containing tyramine. Doing so could cause a dangerous and sudden increase in blood pressure. Patients should also avoid over-the-counter cough and cold remedies that contain dextromethorphan. Potential side effects of this type of depression medication include weight gain, hypertension, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and difficulty urinating.

Keep reading to uncover more common types of antidepressants now.