Depression Meds
Depression meds have been the subject of much controversy in recent years. Many of the meds for treating depression have become main-stream despite their possible negative side effects. This in itself speaks to the breath and severity of the condition we all know as depression.
The most popular and widely prescribed meds for treating depression fall under the category of SSRIs. SSRI stand for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and the first of these, Prozac, has been around since the early 1980’s. These drugs work by increasing the available levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in brain, which is thought to have an effect on mood. Currently there are six SSRIs on the market with a few more in clinical trials. They are Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Luvox, Lexapro, and Celexa.
Generally speaking meds for treating depression take about one to four weeks to show results. While these types of depression meds are often helpful in managing depression symptoms there is dark side and that is the risk of side effects.
When Prozac burst onto the market it was thought that this would be the breakthrough that ultimately put an end to depression in a number of age and gender categories. Like most things that are too good to be true these lofty expectations were not realized mainly because of both anticipated and unanticipated side effects. Next let’s move on to some of the side effects associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Side effects include: insomnia, lethargy, nervousness, upset stomach, fatigue, apathy, loss of sexual interest, dizziness, sweating, tremors, dry mouth, headache, and weight fluctuations. Side effects are often at their worst during the first couple of weeks and decrease over time. Additionally, SSRIs such as Paxil come with the risk of withdrawal symptoms if the medication is discontinued.
When making a decision on depression meds you should work with your doctor to find the right drug for your unique situation. If you are one of the millions of people facing the ups and downs of depression my only hope is that you are able get the help you need to live a happy, productive life and remove the shackles known as depression.
Additionally, if you feel prescription depression meds may be an option you would like to avoid or if your current meds for treating depression haven’t shown the results you had hoped, there is another option; herbal remedies. Herbal remedies for depression have been shown to be very safe in supporting emotional and mental health and can be used in conjunction with most SSRIs or as a stand alone treatment. As always check with your doctor before mixing medications and good luck.
R.D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate of alternative natural health products and supplements with over 10 years experience. To learn more about homeopathic natural health visit Purchase Remedies.com