ANTIDEPRESSANTS

Modern antidepressants are frequently prescribed to treat post-traumatic stress and panic attacks. Available only with a prescription, they have mood-enhancing, motivating, and anti-anxiety properties.

NAMES

The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin-uptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) like amoxapine or doxepin. Another group includes the monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI).

MEDICINES

Fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and three other Fda-approved SSRIS.

HOW THEY WORK

Antidepressants make neurotransmitters in the brain—including dopamine and serotonin— more available. Various types of antidepressants do this in different ways. MAOIS prevent the enzyme monoamine oxidase from removing neurotransmitters from the brain. SSRIS and TCAS block reuptake of the neurotransmitters.

SIDE EFFECTS

Side effects are more likely at the beginning of treatment, when the body is adjusting to the medication. They are usually mild and temporary. Physical symptoms may include dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, blurred vision, headache, nausea, constipation, loss of sexual desire, and increased appetite with weight gain.

INTERACTIONS

SSRIS should never be combined with other antidepressants—especially not with MAO inhibitors, which may cause serious reactions, including life-threatening serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include high blood pressure, loss of muscle coordination, agitation, and confusion.

PROPER USE

The physician determines the proper doses for the individual patient. It usually takes between one and three weeks to produce an effect.