There are many types of anti depression drugs available on the market. In this article, you’ll learn about the different types of drugs, their side effects and drug interactions, so you can determine if there is a drug that is right for you. Although your physician will prescribe a drug for you, remember that ultimately, you are in charge of your health, so it pays to be as informed as possible.

Before we talk about drugs for depression, let’s discuss diagnosis. To be diagnosed with depression, you must have experienced symptoms for more than two weeks and those symptoms must interfere with your ability to perform daily tasks and to enjoy doing things that previously brought you pleasure. In other words, depression is more than just a temporary feeling of the blues.

There are three types of anti depression drugs: tricyclics, the new anti depressants and MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors). Although these drugs can work fairly quickly on the brain (usually between 1-3 weeks, and this is probably the biggest benefit for those who take them), they can have serious side effects. Read on to learn more about the side effects and drug interactions for each type of medication.

<b>Tricyclic Anti Depression Drugs</b>

Although you would think that all drugs in the same class would have the same side effects, this is not the case. For instance Elavil can make you feel sleepy, while Vivactil can create a sense of anxiety and restlessness (which is not helpful for someone who is depressed.) Tricyclics can worsen heart problems which means you must be closely monitored if you are going to use this class of drugs.

Other common side effects can include loss of sexual desire, dizziness, muscle twitches, weight gain, fatigue, dry mouth, uncommon sweating and weakness. Not everyone experiences these side effects and sometimes, they can be temporary.  Tricyclic drugs for depression may interact negatively with blood coagulants, sleeping medication, thyroid hormones, antipsychotic drugs, antihistamines and alcohol.

<b>New Anti Depressants</b>

The problems associated with taking the new anti depressant drugs (SSRIs like Wellbutrin) include headaches, weight gain, anxiety, insomnia and stomach problems. Since these drugs can interact negatively with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, you cannot transition easily from one class of drug to the other. It is advised that you wait at least two weeks after stopping MAOIs before starting SSRIs.

<b>MAOI Anti Depression Drugs</b>

Some of the common side effects of this class of drug are accelerated heart beat, dizziness and negative interactions with certain foods, beverages (especially alcohol) and medications such as insulin, allergy medications, amphetamines and certain narcotics. Due to this, people taking MAOIs must eat a restricted diet and ensure that they are not taking any medication that might cause a negative interaction.

If this list of side effects scares you, then you might also want to know that pharmaceutical companies are not yet sure of the long term side effects of these medications on the brain. Unless you have severe depression, there are healthier alternatives. For instance, in Germany, more people use homeopathic remedies to treat their depression than prescription drugs. In fact, natural remedies can relieve depression without the troubling side effects of prescription drugs by increasing production of feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain.

A formulation made of proven ingredients like St. John’s Wort and Passion Flower have been shown to be the most effective alternative to anti depression drugs. In fact, these ingredients have been used for centuries (unlike prescription drugs, which are relatively new) to treat mild to severe depression. These natural medicines elevate mood, so you can make the small changes in your lifestyle that will help you feel better and reclaim a positive outlook on life. Look for a quality supplement that offers a no-questions-asked, money-back guarantee. This is company that stands behind their product because they know it works.

So there you are: the side effects and interactions of the three types of drugs for depression along with a natural alternative for those who are sensitive to drugs or believe that the risks of taking them are not worth the benefits.

About the Author:

Laura Ramirez is a dedicated to health and wellness. Learn more about her findings on natural ways to treat depression by going to www.cure-depression-naturally.com.

She is the author of the parenting book Keepers of the Children: Native American Wisdom and Parenting which teaches parents how to raise children to develop their natural strengths, so they can lead fulfilling lives and make a real contribution to the world. Her book won a Nautilus Award for books that promote conscious living and social change. Ms. Ramirez is the publisher of Family Matters Parenting Magazine and a keynote speaker.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Revealing Facts About Anti Depression Drugs