Do you struggle with depression? You certainly are not alone if so. In fact, Almost 30% of women in the United States have been diagnosed with depression. This number has risen over the last decade. There are probably many reasons for this but ultimately, being a woman in our world is hard! There are so many pressures to perform: work, home, parenting, and, of course looking just right. And so few resources. However, therapy and medications can be helpful. Many women are afraid of depression medication. Some certainly do cause side effects, however proper management can get you back to feeling like you! Read below for more information.
Basics of Depression Medications
There are 5 basic categories of depression medication. However, medicines meant for other conditions can also be helpful. They mainly work by increasing the availability of neurotransmitters in your brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that help brain cells communicate. There is still a lot more unknown than known about them. However, most research supports that medications combined with therapy are the most effective approach to treating depression.
1. Zoloft
Zoloft is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). This means that it works by keeping more serotonin in the brain space so it can keep stimulating brain cells. Other SSRIs that are helpful include Lexapro, Prozac, Luvox, Paxil and Celexa. Common side effects include weight gain, loss of libido and difficulty with orgasm. But before you tune out, many people don’t actually get these side effects. In fact, many women feel more alive and engaged when their depression is treated.
2. Effexor
Effexor is a Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). SNRIs work both on serotonin and norepinephrine (also a neurotransmitter). Other SNRIs include Pristiq and Cymbalta. The advantage of these medications is they tend to have less side effects than the SSRIs. Additionally, Cymbalta is known to help with chronic pain as well. These medications can also cause sexual side effects. The biggest issue with these medications is they can be hard to come off of. Accordingly, missing a dose can cause headaches.
In addition to helping depression, norepinephrine can also ultimately increase dopamine. The end result of this is that they can help with motivation and executive functioning. So, if your depression involves cognitive issue or oir=f you also live with ADHD, these medications can have added benefits.
3. Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin is considered an “atypical” antidepressant. It does not fit neatly into a category but works on dopamine and norepinephrine. As mentioned above, this can help people get motivated and more organized in addition to helping with depression. A major advantage of this medication is that it does not typically cause weight gain or sexual side effects. In fact, it is sometimes used to counteract sexual side effects of SSRIs or SNRIs. It can, however, increase agitation or raise blood pressure.
4. Amitriptyline
Amitriptiline is a Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA). This is an older class of medication, developed before SSRIs. They are less commonly used as they do have more side effects. The name “tricyclic” comes from targeting three main neurotransmitters: serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. They can be very effective for depression as well as headaches and pain issues. The downside of targeting multiple sites is increased side effects ranging from dry mouth to sedation and weight gain.
5. Viibryd
Viibryd is a newer antidepressant that targets serotonin so is technically a SSRI but considered more targets and novel. It potentially has less side effects than other SSRIs.
Zoloft, Effexor, Amitryptiline, Wellbutrin, and Viibryd are just 5 examples of depression medication. Other options exist as well and will be covered in future blog posts. Depression is hard to live with! Medication for depression may carry side effects however treating depression will ultimately lead to a happier healthier life. Working with a compassionate, skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatrist can help you find the best medication for you.
About the author: Sharon P. Fisher is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of Nurtured Well, a boutique Women’s mental Health practice located in Towson, MD.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, or ADHD please reach out. We will get you the help you need.
