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Medication for Depression & Alcoholism

Alcoholics suffering from depression may need treatment for treat both conditions, as they could be linked, according to MayoClinic.com. There are drugs on the market that may help patients deal with both ailments.

  1. SSRI

    • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are generally the first medications tried in depression treatment, according to MayoClinic.com. This class of drug aids in depression by blocking the neuron that removes serotonin (the feel-good chemical) from the brain.

    Tricyclic Antidepressants

    • Tricyclic antidepressants, also called TCAs, are often prescribed for depression when SSRIs don't work. They have more serious side effects than SSRIs, such as fatigue, weakness and nausea, so, the Mayo Clinic advises, they are a second choice of doctors.

    MAOI

    • The Mayo Clinic reports that monoamine oxidase inhibitors are not often prescribed until other medication options have been exhausted due to their side effects. While they may help with depression, serious side effects, including possible deadly reactions with certain foods have been reported.

    Antabuse

    • Antabuse is used to help patients struggling with alcoholism. A strong reaction, including vomiting, headache, and flushing, is created when the patient drinks, thereby discouraging the behavior.

    Cravings

    • Medications have been prescribed to reduce alcohol cravings in recovering alcoholics. These drugs are believed to block the narcotic high associated with alcohol consumption, aiding the patient in overcoming their alcoholism.

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