Many people who face depression don’t know what they can do to address their depressive symptoms. In fact, some people don’t even know that treatments for their depressive feelings exist. When I experienced my first episode of deep depression, I was totally unaware of what could be done to help eliminate this unwelcome feeling. At …
Fetzima (Levomilnacipran) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that was approved by the FDA in 2013 to treat major depression. It is similar to the older drug milnacipran, but contains the “levo”-stereoisomer – making it slightly different. This antidepressant is regarded as being significantly different from other SNRIs in that it inhibits norepinephrine reuptake to a greater …
Brintellix (Vortioxetine) is a drug that was approved by the FDA in 2013 to treat major depression. It is regarded as an atypical antidepressant, meaning that it’s mechanisms of action are unique from other classifications. As the marketing and promotion of this newer (2013) antidepressant continues, the number of people experimenting with it for their …
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that has been used to treat major depression since its approval in 1961. It is regarded as one of the most popular tricyclic antidepressants of all time and has been regarded by the World Health Organization as an “essential medicine” or a drug needed in a basic health system. …
If you have major depression, chances are good that you could name a few common antidepressants off the top of your head. When most people think of antidepressants, they think of the current most popular classes of medications: the SSRIs (Selective-Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and the SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). In particular, the SSRI “Prozac” seems …
Anxiety is defined as an unpleasant feeling of nervousness or fear that is often accompanied by unrealistic thinking, dread, and panic. For some individuals, anxiety is an uncontrollable part of life – no matter what they do, they cannot escape the anxious thoughts, constant worry, and physical symptoms such as a fast heart rate. If …
Many people enjoy drinking alcohol while socializing as a way to have fun and/or enhance a social experience. Although not everyone enjoys recreational drinking, many people enjoy having an occasional beer or glass of wine while out with friends. For individuals that are taking antidepressants, it is important to be aware of potential interactions that …