Medications
Like any medication, antidepressant medications do not produce the same effect in everyone. Some people may respond better to one medication than another. Some may need larger dosages than others do. Some may experience side effects, while others do not. Age, sex, body size, body chemistry, physical illnesses and their treatments, diet, and habits such as smoking, are some of the factors that can influence a medication’s effect.
Antidepressants: Can They Change Your Personality?
by Kathryn Terese Haik
A new study in the Archives of General Psychiatry led by a psychologist from Northwestern University shows, for the first…read more»
Depression Medication During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
by FYI Staff Writer
According to the Mayo Clinic Pregnancy Guide, not taking anti-depressants during pregnancy might pose risks for mothers, but continuing treatment might pose serious health risks for the baby. The goal, according to them, is finding the solution that has both the health of mom and baby in mind.
Is There Still a Role for First-generation Antidepressants?
by FYI Staff Writer
First generation antidepressants, though often effective in relieving depression, have considerably more side effects than the newer agents. Although this limits their use, they still have a role in the treatment of disorders such as narcolepsy, ADHD, OCD and bed-wetting. They are also sometimes effective in relieving depression in patients who have not responded to other therapies.
How to Decide Whether Depression Medication is the Right Choice for You
by FYI Staff Writer
Finding the right treatment requires a bit of research to understand depression medication. Working with doctors who understand your needs and family history are key. But more importantly, finding relief may require a bit of patience and an open mind. There is not one answer that fits everyone’s unique needs.
The Loss of Effect of Depression Medication is Boosting Psychological Treatments
by FYI Staff Writer
Evidence is mounting that antidepressant drugs have no greater effect than placebos in the treatment of sub-threshold and mild depression, partly explaining the lack of effect of depression medication. As a result, there is a growing movement toward the use of proven psychological and psychosocial treatments for depression.
Handling Side Effects of Depression Medication: Three Common Side Effects and Their Solutions
by FYI Staff Writer
Side effects are part of the territory of taking antidepressant medication. Weight gain, weight loss and sexual side effects can be common with many antidepressants. However, you can minimize many side effects with behavior changes or speaking with your doctor about switching medications to a different dosage.
New Hope for Depression Sufferers
by FYI Staff Writer
Since the late 1980s, more than a dozen new antidepressant medications have been released. Studies have shown that at least 60% of patients with depression experience symptomatic relief. Patience and perseverance are required for optimal results as maximal therapeutic effect is often not evident for several weeks and, not infrequently, a trial and error process is required in order to find the optimal medication and dosage.
What You Need to Know Before You or a Loved One Pop that Prozac
by FYI Staff Writer
Depression is the “common cold” of mental health. It is usually treated with psychotherapy and antidepressant medications. The use of these medications can be life saving for some. However, they can be misused. This article discusses safety issues and precautions when taking antidepressants.
Depression Treatment: Managing My Crippling Condition
by FYI Staff Writer
In 1994 I was diagnosed with a major depressive disorder. What a shock! I quickly set out to learn as…read more»
