Understanding Depression Medication

There is a growing concern that the use of widely used prescription antidepressant medications may be linked to a variety of serious health problems, including for depression medication. Although this particular type of medication has been proven to effectively treat many types of mental health conditions, including clinical depression, research is revealing that some individuals who take these medications may be at a greater risk for depression or other psychological problems later in life. There is no question that these drugs can make depression more severe or life threatening, but the ultimate result is no clear cause or effect. That is why it is very important to carefully consider any potential link between prescribing exercise and depression medication when it is your professional responsibility to provide treatment to your patients.

The most commonly prescribed antidepressants most commonly used to treat depression symptoms are commonly called antidepressants. The main categories of antidepressants commonly prescribed to treat depression are: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Norepinephrine Antidepressants (NPA), and Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Pro-convulsant (SSAP). These medications work by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Exercise and diet have been shown to have positive effects on levels of these three neurotransmitters.

Serotonin and norepinephrine are substances that are naturally produced in the body and working properly can keep depression at bay. These substances include Dopamine and Norepinephrine. Unfortunately, the natural production of these substances decreases with age. This can lead to a need for depression medications for the elderly, as well as those who suffer from a number of diseases and illnesses that affect the body’s chemical systems. Exercise and diet can increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the body, allowing the individual to feel happier and more energetic. Exercise also can relieve muscle tension and other painful symptoms.

SSRIs are an example of SSRI medication. This type of medication is commonly used for anxiety, sexual problems, and insomnia. Common side effects of taking these medications include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Your healthcare provider will be able to discuss these possible side effects and how they may affect your particular situation.

NPA is an example of a non-depressive symptom. An individual with this disorder experiences mood swings, including irritability and anxiety, and have little to no self-esteem. Your healthcare provider will be able to discuss these symptoms with you, along with possible interactions, and how to control them. This disorder is sometimes present in people without depressive symptoms. This is why it’s important to have your doctor check this disorder during a physical and mental exam.

SSAPAs, or Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Antidepressants, work differently than other forms of these medications. Unlike the SSRIs, SSPAs affect specific brain cells and neurotransmitters. Some people with depression may not respond to other forms of treatment. The SSRIs increase levels of two neurotransmitters, noradrenaline and serotonin. The SSPAs increase only one, which is believed to relieve the brain of depression-related chemicals.

Commonly, SSRIs can help reduce anxiety and mildew, which is known to cause some menopausal symptoms. While SSRIs are more effective in the short term than NPA, they are thought to cause some uncomfortable side effects including nausea, dizziness, headaches, constipation, sweating, and stomachaches. On the other hand, the NPA does not have as many side effects. Some people also choose to combine these depression medications, so that they can feel better all around.

When choosing which depression medications to take, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about possible side effects and how each medication may affect your symptoms. You should be aware of any potential interactions with other drugs, vitamins, or herbs, and the risk for an accidental overdose or allergic reaction. Discussing your symptoms and other concerns will help you make an informed decision about treating depression with medications.