Guide To The Most Common Antidepressants

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.