Name 3 of the main symptoms of depression
What are loss of appetite, loss of interest in work, being unnaturally unsocial, loss of energy, feeling restless or being unable to sleep, a long standing negative outlook or uncommon anxiety and worrying, and being more prone to pain, headaches, or digestive problems
How do antidepressants assist with management of symptoms of depression?
Balance Brain Chemicals: Antidepressants work by changing the way brain cells communicate, often by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine.
What can happen if a person abruptly stops antidepressants?
Stopping antidepressants abruptly, especially after taking them for six weeks or more, can cause a condition known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. While it is not a sign of addiction, the sudden change in brain chemistry can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and sometimes severe physical and mental symptoms.
How long does it typically take for antidepressants to reach a therapeutic level?
Most antidepressants reach their full therapeutic level in four to eight weeks, though some initial improvement in symptoms like energy or sleep may be noticeable sooner, within one to two weeks. The medication needs time to build up in the body and change brain connections before its full effects are felt, making patience and adherence to a provider's instructions crucial.
SSRI's are considered first treatment for depression. Why is this? Provide the name of SSRI antidepressants.
SSRIs are typically first-line treatments due to fewer side effects-
SSRIs have fewer side effects than older antidepressants because of their selective action on serotonin, with little to no effect on other neurotransmitter receptors like acetylcholine (memory, learning, alertness, muscle contraction, digestion), histamine (apatite, sleep, emotions, learning), and norepinephrine (Flight or fight, alertness, mood, metabolism).
Examples-
Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Luvox, Paxil, Zoloft
List three common side effects of antidepressants.
Nausea, dry mouth, headache, insomnia/ drowsiness, GI issues, weight loss or gain.
SSRIs are a form of antidepressant whose initials stand for
What is Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
What is a side effect of antidepressants that can be embarrassing to talk about?
Sexual dysfunction