Depression Medication

Antidepressants drugs are effective for both moderate and severe depression. There are 3 types of Antidepressants -

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and related Antidepressants.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and related Antidepressants.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Some drugs used in the treatment of depression

Noradreneric and specific serotonergic antidepressants - There is one main drug in this group that is similar to the tricyclic group of drugs. It works on two neurotransmitters. An example of this type of drug is mirtazapine - brand name Zispin.

The drug flupentixol (brand name Fluanxol) is also sometimes given as an antidepressant or used in the treatment of psychosis.

Anxiolytics such as benzodiazepines (diazepam) used to induce sleep. It is advisable that it should be used for no more than 2 to 4 weeks or as suggested by doctor.

Lithium - This drug is often used in the treatment of manic depression, and sometimes in recurrent depression too. It is sometimes given with an anti-psychotic drug. It is important to discuss diet with a doctor, as it is essential when taking this drug to ensure the right balance of fluid and salt intake.

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) - This is sometimes used to treat manic depression, or as a preventive measure in this illness, if lithium has not been effective.

Anti-psychotic drugs

These drugs are sometimes called neuroleptics are mostly prescribed for schizophrenia and psychotic states - psychosis is a state where a person experiences hallucinations and delusions. In some cases, they relieve acute anxiety and control severe aggressive and manic behavior. Examples of anti-psychotic drugs include -

chlorpromazine

pericyazine

fluphenazine

thioxanthenes

loxapine

amisulpride

clozapine

risperiodone

zotepine

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