SSRIs and Depression: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants that affect serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter. Side effects may include
- rash,
- low blood sugar,
- drowsiness,
- photosensitivity, and
- kidney or liver impairment.
- withdrawal-like symptoms in newborns,
- decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation in men,
- photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn),
- rash,
- low blood sodium levels,
- low blood sugar levels,
- drowsiness, and
- kidney or liver impairment.
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Alcoholism
Alcohol problems vary in severity from mild to life-threatening and affect the individual, the person's family, and society in numerous adverse ways. Signs of a drinking problem include insomnia, loss of employment, blackouts, depression, auto accidents, bruises, frequent falls, and anxiety. Treatment involves stabilization, detoxification, and rehabilitation of the alcohol-dependent person. -
Anxiety
Anxiety as a medical condition is characterized by worry, fear, nervousness, shortness of breath, sleep problems and other symptoms. Diarrhea, tremors, and rapid heart rate are some physical symptoms of severe anxiety, which may arise from a mental or physical condition, drug use, or some combination of these causes. Treatment can include medication and psychotherapy. -
Drug Dependence & Abuse
Drug dependence is the physical need for a certain substance. Drug abuse and dependence comprise a huge public health problem with no easy treatment available. -
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is an illness with no known cause. Symptoms include chronic pain, fatigue, fibrofog (mental haziness), insomnia, headaches, nervousness, numbness, dizziness, and intestinal disturbances. Treatment may involve acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, antidepressants, Lyrica, Cymbalta, Savella, Flexeril, and Mirapex. -
Grief and Bereavement
Grief is our personal experience of loss. Mourning is a public expression of our grief. Bereavement is the period after a loss during which mourning occurs (usually a relatively brief time) and grief is experienced (often for a much longer time). -
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are episodes of extreme anxiety that are usually accompanied by chest pain. Panic attack symptoms and signs include chest pain, nausea, sweating, palpitations and shaking. Panic disorder is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. -
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, is among only a few mental disorders that are triggered by a disturbing outside event, quite unlike other psychiatric disorders such as depression. PTSD symptoms include re-experiencing the event, avoiding anything that reminds you of the event, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in arousal or reactivity. PTSD treatment can include medication and therapy. -
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression occurs in 10%-20% of women after having a baby. Symptoms and signs include frequent crying, sleep disturbance, and weight loss. Treatment may involve psychotherapy and medication. -
Seasonal Depression (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is tied to seasons of the year. Symptoms include depressed mood, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and poor concentration. Treatment may incorporate bright-light therapy and antidepressants. -
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a normal characteristic in infants and toddlers. Symptoms include reluctance to fall asleep, homesickness, nightmares, tantrums if separated from the primary caregiver, and feelings of anxiety. Treatment may incorporate positive reinforcement, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and anti-anxiety medications. -
Substance Abuse
People abuse substances such as drugs, alcohol, and tobacco for varied and complicated reasons, but it is clear that our society pays a significant cost. Symptoms and signs of substance abuse include forgetfulness, frequent hangovers, having blackouts, and getting into trouble with the law. Treatment typically involves counseling and prescription medications to control withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. -
Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts may be brought about by a sudden, negative change in life circumstances, substance abuse, or even sleep deprivation. Suicidal thoughts are troubling, particularly if they're accompanied by substance abuse or depression. If you or someone you know is considering suicide and are unsure how to deal with it, call a suicide hotline, like 1-800-SUICIDE, to get help.
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Depression FAQs Get the answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about depression. Learn the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and medical treatments for this very common mental health condition that affect anyone at any time.
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SSRIs and Depression Topic Guide - Visuals
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SSRIs and Depression Topic Guide - Medications and Vitamins
Medications:
EscitalopramEscitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI antidepressant...learn more »
Citalopram (oral)Citalopram is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
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FluvoxamineFluvoxamine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. Fluvoxamine affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people wi...learn more »
ImipramineImipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat symptoms of depression. Imipramine is sometimes used to treat bed-wetting in children ages 6 and older...learn more »
FluoxetineFluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressant.
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Carbamazepine (oral)Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant that is used to treat seizures and nerve pain such as trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy. Carbamazepine is also ...learn more »