Gabapentin (Neurontin) is a medication that was developed as a treatment for neuropathic pain and as an adjunct for seizures. It is also commonly prescribed off-label for conditions such as: restless leg syndrome, hot flashes, migraines, and even anxiety disorders. In fact, an estimated 9/10 prescriptions for the drug are for off-label conditions. The drug …
Risperdal (Risperidone) is an atypical antipsychotic medication that has been approved since 1994 for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, as well as certain cases of autism. It functions as an antagonist of the neurotransmitter dopamine. By acting as an antagonist, it reduces overall dopamine activity in the brain and helps eliminate many of the …
Zyprexa (Olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic medication that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In relatively rare cases, it is used as an augmentation strategy for the treatment of depression. The drug is manufactured by the company Eli Lilly, and has generated billions of dollars in revenue. Despite …
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is a drug that us utilized primarily to treat major depression. It was approved in 2004 by the FDA as an SNRI antidepressant, and would later receive approval for the treatment of neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and some cases of chronic pain. The fact that Cymbalta can be prescribed to treat a diverse number of conditions …
Celexa (Citalopram) is a drug that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression. It works as an SSRI (selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor) which increases extracellular levels of serotonin. It is believed that by increasing serotonin, it is an effective treatment for major depression as well as various forms of anxiety and panic disorders. It has …
Trazodone (Desyrel) is a medication that is approved for the treatment of depression. It is classified as an atypical antidepressant that functions as a “SARI” (serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor). In addition to inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, it also blocks excess serotonin at various receptor sites. It is believed that the combined effect of …