Antidepressants Drug Database :-

Most cases of depression are caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.

Fortunately, depression is a highly treatable condition. If you are diagnosed with depression and you take the medications that your doctor prescribes, there is an excellent chance that your depression will fade away, like a bad dream.

Scientific studies have determined that antidepressant medications work best when they are combined with counseling, such as seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or other health professional on a regular basis.

It is essential that depressed people who are on medication do not discontinue taking their medication even when they feel relax. You need to take your medications every day regardless of how you feel.

If you discontinue taking your medications without the advice and approval of your doctor, there is a chance that you will depressed again, possibly severely, and the medicines may take longer to work.

Antidepressants are powerful drugs and should never be taken without a doctor's prescription. You don't want to self treat depression because the consequences could be disastrous.

How can drugs help depression ?

The brain communicates with itself through the use of special chemicals called neurotransmitters such as "serotonin" and "norepinephrine".

There is a strong correlation between the amount of these chemicals in the brain and a person's mood. If levels of these chemicals get too low people feel depressed. Doctors elevate these brain chemicals with the use of drugs.

The two most common Drug groups are :-

SSRI's (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) :- These drugs increase the brain's level of serotonin, thus improving mood. SSRI's have also been shown to be useful in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder and some forms of severe shyness. They are generally well tolerated and effective.

Tricyclic Antidepressants :- It get their name from their chemical structure. This class of drugs is very effective in combating depression but is associated with troublesome side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation.

Other families of antidepressant drugs include :-
MAOI's (monoamine oxidase Inhibitors) :- MAOI's are very effective but have potentially life-threatening drug interactions and food interactions. If you are taking a MAOI drug, it is important that you consult with your doctor before you take any other medicines.