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Medication for Exhaustion From Depression

Major depressive disorder is the leading cause of disability from ages 15 to 44 in the United States, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The disease affects approximately 14.8 million American adults, which equates to 6.7 percent of the population over the age of 18.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, depression may cause sleep issues, and sleep problems, such as insomnia, may contribute to depressive disorders. Whatever your case may be, there are solutions.

  1. Over-the-Counter Sleeping Aids

    • Depression can throw off the natural rhythms of your sleeping cycle. If exhaustion has been a rare occurrence, try Tylenol PM, Advil PM or Benadryl. Visit your local pharmacy and ask your pharmacist if they can recommend a brand for you. If you still feel tired and sluggish, consult a physician.

    Melatonin

    • A more recent cure for insomnia is melatonin, a hormone found naturally in all biological organisms, according to www.melatonin.com. Melatonin may pull double duty for those suffering from depression, as it has also been used as a treatment for seasonal affective disorder. It can help with depression and even skin protection. Melatonin is available over the counter and relatively cheaply. The prescription form, Rozerem, is also available.

    Prescription Sleeping Aids

    • Prescriptions for sleeping pills are not solely geared toward people with depression. The benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Diazepam and Ativan) were intended for anxiety, but have the side effects of causing extreme drowsiness. They are often used to treat fatigue in those suffering from depression by ensuring a good night's sleep.

      Ambien, Lunesta and Sonata are used to treat other sleep disorders, and are also commonly prescribed to those diagnosed with depression. These pills offer a good night's sleep, which sometimes allows a brighter outlook the next morning.

    Side Effects

    • Like all medications, there are side effects associated with sleeping agents. Some symptoms diminish in time. However, according to www.sleep-deprivation.com, if you notice any of the following symptoms, consult your doctor or pharmacist: blurry vision, increased depression, dizziness, dramatic weight loss or gain, hallucinations, heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), irritability, memory loss, nausea, tremors or trouble speaking.

    Treat Your Depression

    • Treating depression is often a long, frustrating effort, but in the end, it will give you peace of mind and good nights of sleep. If your lack of sleep and exhaustion is caused by depression and not the other way around, the symptoms will alleviate themselves as the main medical issue is addressed. By seeking the treatment of both a psychologist and a psychiatrist, the sleeping pills listed above will eventually become things of the past.

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