Drugs for Major Depressive Disorder

Major depression is one of the four major mental illnesses alongside schizophrenia, schizo-affective and bi-polar disorder. This illness can be so severe that inflicted people may feel so unhappy and sad, they may develop suicidal thoughts. Although it can be severe, major depression can be treated with medication.

Anti-Depressants

• The most commonly prescribed drugs for major depressive disorder are various anti-depressants. Mentalhealthchannel.net states that 80% of patients show signs of improvement.

SSRIs

• The Mayo Clinic states that the most popular and first anti-depressant tried in patients are the SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These drugs focus on the neurotransmitter serotonin by increasing its levels.

Tricyclic

• Tricyclic anti-depressants are older drugs that focus on more than just serotonin in the brain. Although they have efficacy, they are not as commonly prescribed as the SSRIs due to their strong side effects.

MAOIs

• If depression does not improve with SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors are used. These drugs are potentially fatal if combined with certain foods and other drugs.

Mood Stabilizers

• In some cases, mood stabilizers such as lithium may be prescribed. These drugs also have negative side effects that make them a less favorable treatment.

Anti-Anxiety/Sleep

• Benzodiazepines, although both physically and psychologically addictive, are used in patients with high anxiety levels and sleep issues. These medications must not be abused and monitored regularly.