Clonazepam

Depression Drug

How can drugs help depression?
The brain communicates with itself through the use of special chemicals called neurotransmitters such as "serotonin" and "norepinephrine".
There is a strong correlation between the amount of these chemicals in the brain and a person's mood. If levels of these chemicals get too low people feel depressed. Doctors elevate these brain chemicals with the use of drugs.

There are many different families of antidepressants available today. The two most common groups are:

- SSRI's (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) These drugs increase the brain's level of serotonin, thus improving mood. SSRI's have also been shown to be useful in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder and some forms of severe shyness.

They are generally well tolerated and effective. Some common SSRI side effects include: heartburn and drowsiness. They can sometimes produce a transient loss of appetite. SSRI medications can have drug interactions. You should consult with your doctor or pharmacist prior to mixing them with other medications.

- Tricyclic Antidepressants get their name from their chemical structure. This class of drugs is very effective in combating depression but is associated with troublesome side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation.
Tricyclic antidepressant medications can have drug interactions. You should consult with your doctor or pharmacist prior to mixing them with other medications.

Other families of antidepressant drugs include the MAOI's (monoamine oxidase Inhibitors). MAOI's are very effective but have potentially life-threatening drug interactions and food interactions. If you are taking a MAOI drug, it is important that you consult with your doctor before you take any other medicines. Your doctor will also tell you which foods to avoid mixing with your medicine.

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