Available antidepressants. How do antidepressants work? Safe strong antidepressants - names

Depression, unfortunately, it’s not easy to feel tired or blues, as many are used to perceiving it, but serious illness. But methods of treating it continue to progress.

There have been several generations antidepressants, the last of which is different increased efficiency. We will tell you about the features of their reception in this article.

Popular new generation antidepressants

Modern drugs of this profile are also called fourth generation antidepressants. The start period for their development starts from 90s of the last century. These drugs are combined into a group called SSRIs (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).

To the very popular means this group includes:

In drugs latest generation there are some advantages before the depression medications that were released before.

Among them:

1. The number has decreased side effects.
2. The result of the action appears faster.
3. The risk of addiction has been significantly reduced.
4. Compatible with a wide range of medications.

Modern antidepressants are divided into two groups based on their effect on the human psyche:

• stimulating effect;
• sedative effect.

Ask your doctor about your situation

Clinical trials of antidepressants

Of all generations of antidepressants, the most powerful for a long time remained first generation drugs. Their main disadvantage is the side effects that these medications can have on the body. The remedies of the next generations were distinguished by a more gentle effect, but at the same time the treatment process slowed down.

Studies of modern drugs that fight depression show that the speed of their action on the nervous system is almost the same as that of first-generation drugs, but the side effects are greatly reduced.

European experts conducted clinical studies of the latest generation antidepressants, according to the conclusions of which:

1. The antidepressant sertraline is considered the “gold standard”.
2. Moreover, its effect is enhanced when combined with vanlafaxine, mirtazapine and escitalopram.
3. Fluoxetine is very easily absorbed by the body, but its effect is weakened.
4. Reboxetine is one of the weakest antidepressants.
5. One of the most effective drugs is called “Nodepress” (it is not addictive and does not cause “lethargy”).
6. To normalize sleep, you need to take medications containing the substance agomelatine.

But it is impossible to name one universal remedy that is ideal for every person. Like other medications, antidepressants are tailored to each individual's body. individually.

When is a doctor's prescription required for antidepressants?

Drugs used to treat depression can be divided into two groups:

• mild (those that can be purchased without a prescription);
• strong (not available without a prescription).

A person most often needs potent drugs in the following cases:

1. Mental illness in the acute stage.
2. Atypical form of the disease.
3. A severe type of depression.

In such situations it is necessary to contact doctor, only he can pick the right drugs from depression and concomitant diseases and their dosage.

In cases where medicine is faced with advanced forms of the disease, potent first-generation antidepressants are prescribed for treatment, such as phenelzine or isocarboxazid. Among modern drugs, they have worthy competition moclobemide.

In our similar article you can find more useful information about .

What is special about antidepressants?

The drugs that we used to call antidepressants actually successfully fight in the human body not only against the disease called “depression.”

These drugs are also accepted:

Correct technique

The best solution when experiencing symptoms of depression should be seeing a doctor. In some cases, unauthorized treatment with antidepressants can lead to aggravation of the problem. The prescription of treatment with such drugs depends on whether your brain needs drugs that have a sedative or stimulating effect.

Some medications may work immediately, but in most cases, the effect of taking antidepressants appears within a period of time. 2-4 weeks.

When taking weaker drugs, symptoms of depression begin to disappear only after 6-8 weeks their use. Antidepressants for the first few weeks docked disease, and in subsequent months of use prevent its relapse.

Some people mistakenly believe that antidepressants are a kind of “vitamins” to improve mood and vigor. Therefore, the opinion arises that they can be used constantly. This is absolutely not true - antidepressants are serious medications, the use of which is usually limited to several months.

Only in certain cases appointed preventive treatment such drugs for up to several years.

When taking medications for depression, you need to carefully learn about compatibility each individual drug with other medications.

For example, the following side effects are known:

1. Antidepressants + antipsychotics, tranquilizers, antidepressants of other groups, oral contraceptives – slow down metabolism, increase side effects.
2. Antidepressants + anticonvulsants, barbiturates - a decrease in the concentration of medicinal substances in the blood.
3. Antidepressants + sympathomimetics, thyroidin – development of tachycardia.

A single rule for taking all drugs in this group is the complete exclusion of alcohol. Almost all antidepressants are prohibited for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 18 years of age. The treatment regimen for different antidepressants also depends on each specific case.

List of drugs without prescriptions

In addition to serious antidepressants, as mentioned above, there are a number of lighter medications. Their action really does not imply the treatment of a serious mental illness, but the relief of stress and fatigue.

The most popular stimulant antidepressants (and their analogues), which can easily be bought at a pharmacy, are:

• "Maprotiline";
• "Prozac";
• "Paxil";
• "Deprim";
• "Leuzea extract";
• "Ginseng tincture";
• "Schisandra tincture."

Sedative antidepressants that you can get without a prescription:

Remember that even the most harmless antidepressants at first glance can cause side effects.

Conclusion

If you are thinking about going to the pharmacy and purchasing a drug with the big name antidepressant, answer yourself a few questions:

The main thing is to remember - depression this is also a disease. And antidepressants are medications, when taking which you need to be careful and follow all instructions.

Not everyone knows that depression is not just a bad state of a person, it is a disease.

Without treatment, depression does not go away. If you don’t take care of your health, various accompanying symptoms may appear. psychological disorders, and a bad mood turns into a way of life.

With depression, not only does the patient’s mood change, the disease affects overall health, behavior and thoughts. Since any medical supplies, which are designed to fight this disease, affect the entire nervous system, only the attending physician can choose an effective and safe medicine that will not cause harm and at the same time will have the maximum positive effect.

In cases of severe depression, psychologists and neurologists around the world almost always prescribe new generation antidepressants as part of general therapy. Compared to other types of antidepressants, they can be used by almost all patients (with special reservations, even children and pregnant women); there are practically no side effects from such medications.

In addition, new generation antidepressants have a dual effect; not only serotonin is inhibited, but also norepinephrine. Thus, this type of medication is suitable for all cases of depression. Including for chronic types of disease.

Features of the drugs of the group

Since antidepressants act on the nervous system, there are a number of important features. For example, any drug from this group should never be stopped immediately.

The dose should be gradually reduced. This will avoid relapse of the disease. We must not forget about the seriousness of depression. When prescribing antidepressants to patients, you should constantly monitor them during the first weeks of using the drug - this is done in order to avoid suicide attempts.

Case studies

These medications performed well during clinical trials in Holland. In order to make the most objective assessment, it is worth excluding the placebo effect, especially for this type of new generation antidepressants, such as invitro. A placebo is a change in the state of the body using self-hypnosis; in this case, this is in no way explained by the influence of any biochemical drugs.

A drug such as Fluoxetine has shown itself to be very effective; it acts without any side effects, but its effectiveness is somewhat weaker than that of other modern antidepressants of the new generation.

In the case of using several antidepressants at the same time, the most effective drugs will be Escitalopram and Mirtazapine, as well as the same Fluoxetine. When only Sertraline was used, the effect was lower compared to the combined course of treatment.

A new generation antidepressant such as Effexor, or, in other words, Venlafaxine, has also been studied. It blocks all serotonin receptors, but we must not forget that if the dose is increased, the reuptake of a substance such as norepinephrine will be blocked.

There is another remedy with a non-standard principle of action - Remeron, which stimulates the production of histamine. This drug also helps overcome insomnia. However, do not forget that this drug has its side effects, like all other antidepressants.

The best new generation antidepressants

A study was conducted in the Netherlands that was aimed at comparing new generation antidepressants. For comparison, factors such as treatment effectiveness, side effects and patient tolerance of medications were used. More than 25 thousand people who suffered from depression took part in this study.

Based on the data received, reviews and analysis of open information, we have compiled next list, which includes only the best modern antidepressants of the new generation, almost all of which are without side effects:

1. Sertraline. The drug has a very good degree of effectiveness and a low price. But don't forget about the side effects. And these are drowsiness, pain in the head, ataxia, aggressiveness, anxiety, dry mouth, decreased appetite and others.
2. Paxil. A fairly well-known antidepressant that is prescribed a large number of doctors. It should not be used in combination with Thioridazine and MAO inhibitors.
3. Escitalopram. The drug has high level effectiveness and excellent tolerability in people over 18 years of age. Children should choose another drug.
4. Citalopram, an antidepressant, has shown good tolerability, and also has quite a few contraindications, including too much sensitivity to the substance or taken together with MAO inhibitors.
5. Bupropion is well tolerated, but price is a big factor for some. The monetary cost of the drug is quite high, but the effectiveness is quite average. For this reason, it is better to turn your attention to other medications.
6. Fluvoxamine. The drug has a fairly good level of effectiveness and is well tolerated. Among the side effects it is worth noting painful sensations in the head area, respiratory tract infections, decreased libido and others.
7. Milnacipram. The drug occupies the middle of the list and is something average in all respects. If you are pregnant, you should refrain from undergoing treatment with this drug.
8. Fluoxetine has a low level of effectiveness, but there are practically no side effects. This medicine can be used even by pregnant women, but during the course of treatment you should stop breastfeeding.
9. Mirtazapine. The drug also showed a very high level of effectiveness, however, more than 15% of the subjects interrupted treatment due to increased appetite, confusion, strange dreams, asthenia and other side effects.
10. Insidon. Most often it is prescribed for outpatient treatment. It has an anti-vomiting and anti-convulsant effect, and is also an analgesic.
11. Venlafaxine, an antidepressant, showed excellent effectiveness, but a large number of side effects were noted. Almost every 5 people who took it experienced side effects. These include insomnia, increased drowsiness, asthenia, nausea and others.
12. Paroxetine, like Fluoxetine, is not highly effective. There may also be such side effects, such as urticaria, myalgia, nausea and vomiting, sweating. The drug is poorly tolerated.
13. Duloxetine. It has average degree effectiveness and side effects occur quite often, so it is better to turn your attention to other antidepressants.
14. Agomelatine. An antidepressant that appeared not so long ago and showed excellent results. However, it is not recommended for use by children or those with lactose intolerance. If mania occurs, you should stop using the drug.
15. Last on the list is Reboxetine. Poor tolerability and low effectiveness indicate that this is far from the most best medicine from depression.

Voice of the people

Reviews from people who have undergone treatment with new generation antidepressants.

I used Reboxetine a few weeks ago. I had panic attacks. I don't have any side effects. This was my first time taking antidepressants.

Five most effective antidepressants

Antidepressants are needed to stabilize mood and eliminate symptoms of depression. They quickly affect the patient’s nervous system and are often combined with various medications. Before using any of these drugs, you should consult your doctor. Only he will definitely find out the cause of the psychological problem and help choose suitable medications, will determine the duration of treatment required and the correct dose. Drugs that do not have a strong effect are dispensed in pharmacies without a doctor’s certificate, but when prescribing potent antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), the doctor writes a prescription.

Paxil

The drug relieves depression of various types and degrees of severity, eliminates feelings of anxiety.

1. Indications. Paxil helps during panic attacks, agoraphobia, nightmares. It is used during stress disorders in the post-traumatic period.

The price of a package of Paxil for 30 tablets in Russia is about 700 rubles, and in Ukraine you will have to pay almost 500 UAH for the same one.

Mianserin

Mianserin belongs to the group of psychoactive drugs. The drug has an antiemetic effect and stimulates appetite.

1. Indications. Various mental disorders, feeling of constant anxiety, deep depression.

One pack of Mianserin contains 20 tablets. Their cost in Russia fluctuates around 1000 rubles, and in Ukraine the price is 250–400 UAH.

Mirtazapine

The drug Mirtazapine is sold in the form of convex, oval-shaped tablets with a special film coating applied on top. They have a yellow-brown color.

1. Indications. Prescribed by a doctor during periods of depression with noticeable lethargy, weight loss, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts.

The cost of a package of Mirtazapine (30 mg / 20 pcs.) in Russian pharmacies is about 2100–2300 rubles. In Ukraine the price will be 400–500 UAH.

Azafen

Azafen is a fairly common drug that is also prescribed as a sedative.

1. Indications. Prescribed by a doctor for depression of various types: alcoholic, senile, exogenous. Treats feelings of increased anxiety and deep stress.

Azafen in a package of 50 tablets (25 mg) is available in any pharmacy in Russia for 180–200 rubles, in Ukraine similar drug costs about 250 UAH.

Amitriptyline

One of the most potent antidepressants is undoubtedly Amitriptyline, which has a characteristic sedative effect.

1. Indications. The drug should be used strictly as prescribed by the doctor during periods of depression. Amitriptyline helps with acute feelings of anxiety.

The price of Amitriptyline (25 mg, 50 tablets) in Russian pharmacies fluctuates around 25–30 rubles. Ukrainian pharmacies sell similar packaging for 15–17 UAH.

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Complete list of antidepressants without a doctor's prescription

An antidepressant is a drug that affects the production of serotonin and norepinephrine and affects/regulates a person’s mood. In most cases, they are medicines, but we will look at those that:

• widely available;
• do not require a doctor's prescription;
• natural, unnatural, safe and not so much.

Let us immediately note that we will not touch on powerful pharmaceuticals, because... they have a huge number of side effects, and taking them will turn out to be “treating one thing, crippling another.”

What is responsible for the presence or absence of depression?

Serotonin is a substance that is responsible for a person’s mood. It is located in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, and hemocytes. However, modern stress leads to a decrease in its level, and accordingly, it is necessary to increase it in every possible way.

Lack of serotonin leads to the following disorders: bad dream, bad mood, appetite disorders (constant need for sweets and simple carbohydrates), depression, headaches, muscle and other pain.

Signs of serotonin deficiency: depression, obesity, bulimia, insomnia, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, headaches, migraines, fibromyalgia, premenstrual syndrome.

What antidepressants can be bought without a prescription?

This is a tetracyclic antidepressant that helps relieve apathy, anxiety and improve mood. Possible weak effect when taken.

Side effects include convulsions, especially in case of overdose.

Prozac (prodel, fluoxetine, fluval, profluzac)

Selective serotonin inhibitor. Received wide application at doctors. Helps relieve panic, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, premenstrual disorders.

Among the side effects - wide list from headaches and blood pressure problems to sexual dysfunction. Withdrawal syndrome is possible.

Bioavailability – up to 70%. The composition is unnatural.

Zyban (Bupropion, Nosmoke, Wellbutrin)

Action: selective inhibition of reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. Helps with the abolition of various addictions: nicotine, narcotic. Removes lethargy, fatigue, hypersomnia.

Side effects: hypertension, convulsions, nausea, insomnia, tinnitus.

Bioavailability – up to 20%. The composition is unnatural.

Paxil (paroxetine, adepress, plisil, rexetine, sirestill, plisil)

Action: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Helps get rid of depression, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, nightmares.

Side effects - a wide list that affects following systems body: central nervous system, autonomic, cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine, genitourinary, respiratory, gastrointestinal tract. Overdose can lead to coma.

Bioavailability – 100%. The composition is unnatural.

Has a sedative effect. Helps get rid of depression, improve sleep, improve mood, increase physical and mental activity.

Side effects - allergies, nausea, vomiting, constipation, lethargy, fatigue, drowsiness.

Has a sedative effect. Helps reduce nervous tension, depression, improve mood.

Side effects - allergies, constipation.

Bioavailability - not studied. Composition – semi-natural.

Has a sedative effect. Helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, reduce nervous tension, depression.

Side effects - allergies, nausea, heaviness in the stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, weakness, joint pain, drowsiness, depression, dizziness.

Bioavailability - not studied. Composition – semi-natural.

The most effective and safe antidepressant

5 Hydroxytryptophan (5 HTP) is a natural amino acid that is converted into serotonin in the body. This occurs when the amino acid decarboxylase is exposed to aromatic L-amino acids.

To get 5 hydroxytryptophan, the body must obtain tryptophan, which is quite energy-consuming and some people have problems with its synthesis. And by taking 5 HTP, you eliminate one link in the metabolism and actually give the body a preparation from which it can easily make serotonin.

Helps relieve depression, remove headaches, improve sleep, improve mood, reduce anxiety, and normalize appetite.

Side effects - allergies, nausea, diarrhea.

Bioavailability - not studied. Composition – natural.

Herbal antidepressants

It is quite possible to buy other natural antidepressants that are sold at the pharmacy. Usually these are various herbal infusions or herbal mixtures that need to be brewed and drunk. Among the side effects you can get - no positive effect, allergies, nausea, diarrhea.

Tinctures – maralia root, rhodiola rosea, immortalinum, lemongrass, leuzea, ginseng, meadow clover, blue honeysuckle, oregano, motherwort. Improves mood, resistance to stress, increases performance, stimulates psychomotor functions, reduce or eliminate depression.

Please note that tinctures in most cases are alcohol-based, which has a negative effect on the body.

Herbs and their combinations - honey, oregano, chamomile, dill, caraway, valerian, peppermint, hops, hawthorn, angelica, calendula. Helps with seasonal depression, insomnia, improves sleep, performance, reduces fatigue, tension, and depression.

Precautionary measures

Unfortunately, in our country it is customary to immediately run to the pharmacy for any health problem, without visiting a doctor. Of course, this can be attributed to the fact that the doctor may be incompetent or indifferent to his patients.

In addition, statistics show that the majority of people who buy antidepressants on their own do not suffer from depression or mental problems. They just need a good rest.

However, there are qualified specialists who can help without the use of pharmaceuticals or medicinal plants. Therefore, we recommend that you first consult a doctor or psychiatrist, and only after that go to the pharmacy.

This way, possible side effects will also be taken into account. pharmaceutical drug. Since some of them form addiction and dependence.

The best strong antidepressants of the new generation, a list of drugs without prescriptions

Stress and depression have taken over modern humanity so much that many people use antidepressants as food or dessert. However, few people know what the best and most powerful antidepressants are today, available without a prescription from a psychotherapist, what effect they have on the psyche and brain biochemistry, and also what side effects different antidepressants have.

Safe strong antidepressants - names

Any strong antidepressants, including the so-called “safe” ones, are drugs (essentially psychotropics) that mainly affect the level of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters) in the biochemistry of the brain in depressive and stress disorders.

It is precisely when the listed “hormones of joy” are reduced, often during stress, emotional and mental stress, psychological trauma, etc. the person may experience depression. Strong, safe antidepressants help improve mood, relieve sadness, anxiety, restlessness and irritability; they improve sleep phases and make a person more productive.

Antidepressants have different names, most often these are trademarks, which may hide the general international name of a particular antidepressant drug.

The best antidepressants - a list of new generation drugs

Many of the best new generation antidepressants are available without a doctor's prescription and are mainly composed of various herbs and other natural substances. However, this does not mean at all that they are completely safe and can really save a person from depression once and for all.

Antidepressants - list of new generation drugs:

Natural, herbal antidepressants

The main natural herbal antidepressants:

Tricyclic antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants - list of drugs:

What's better than taking antidepressants? Psychotherapy and psychotraining

Even the best and safest antidepressants have side effects in one way or another; moreover, they do not treat the disease itself, do not remove the source of depression or stress, but only relieve symptoms, temporarily improving a person’s emotional and mental state.

After stopping antidepressants, a “withdrawal syndrome” may occur and depression may soon return in an even more severe form.

Antidepressants should be taken only in crisis situations, and when the condition improves, resort to non-drug psychotherapy and psychological training. Only in this case is it possible to get rid of the very source of depression and carry out antidepressant prevention for the future.

Be sure to take a look at the psychotherapist's journal, read useful articles and recommendations. Discuss your psychological problems in the psychological club

Review of popular modern antidepressants

Effective modern antidepressants double acting free from some side effects of previous analogues. Their use gives positive results within 2-3 weeks. Due to various side effects It is difficult to choose one effective remedy from the group of antidepressants. Let's look at the most popular new antidepressants that are prescribed in our country. Let's compare them with analogues used in Europe.

New antidepressants popular in Europe and Russia

New antidepressants of the new generation SSRI group are prescribed for depressive conditions. The effectiveness of their use depends on the strength and proportionality in the selective inhibition of norepinephrine and serotonin receptors. The ability to block the release of both substances eliminates the need to use several drugs in pathologies with impaired metabolism of both mediators. The most popular antidepressants in Russia are fluoxetine, venlafaxine, milnacipral, and deloxetine.

Attention! The drugs are sold in pharmacies only with a doctor's prescription.

Venlafaxine

A fairly strong medicine with narcotic side effects that occurs due to a pronounced blockade of norepinephrine release at nerve synapses. Prescribed for schizophrenia and other mental disorders accompanied by depressive states.

Fluoxetine ("Portal")

For milder depressive disorders, it is better to replace venlafaxine with fluoxetine. Its effect is associated with a decrease in serotonin uptake, which creates a “softer” effect. The drug is used all over the world for depressive disorders and bulimia nervosa, but other new generation antidepressants are preferable to it.

The medicine has become widely used due to the lack of impact on the metabolism of other mediators, except norepinephrine and serotonin. The stimulating and weak sedative activity of fluoxetine allowed it to be used in outpatient settings. clinical practice doctor

Regardless of the time of administration, the medicine is well absorbed. Its half-life is 1-3 days. The duration of action of up to 15 days, which is described in the annotation for the product, is determined by its active metabolite – norfluxetine. Fluoxetine is produced under the name “portal” by the company “LEK”. 20 mg of fluoxetine is contained in a “portal” capsule. The standard dose of an antidepressant for fears and phobias is 1 capsule per day.

Clinical studies have shown that the “portal” is particularly effective in treating depression of various origins. Modern antidepressants such as “Portal” are used to treat patients with compulsive-obsessive disorders in old age.

“Portal” is tolerated quite well by patients. Side effects are either mild or absent. In any case, upon detection negative effects When using the drug, it should not be discontinued, but only corrective therapy for the disorders should be carried out. Contraindication to use is hypersensitivity to MAOIs and fluoxetine.

Sertraline

A new generation antidepressant with the most pronounced effect. It is the “gold standard” in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Maximum effectiveness is observed with bulimia nervosa (lack of appetite). Dose – mg per day.

Paxil

It has anxiolytic and thymoanaleptic effects. It is used for inhibited and melancholy depression, relieves suicidal thoughts and treats personality disorders. Anxiety states quickly disappear with a daily dose of the drug. In some cases, doctors increase the dosage to 80 mg.

Insidon (opipramol)

An antidepressant with antiemetic, hypothermic and anticonvulsant effects. It exhibits antiserotonin, analgesic and antihistamine activity. Insidon is used to stabilize the active background. In the first days of using the drug, a pronounced tranquilizing effect is observed.

Additionally, opipramol is used to stabilize the autonomic system in dyskinesias genitourinary organs, intestines, heart pain, vegetative-vascular dystonia (VSD). Due to the above effects, antidepressants of the opipramol group are considered “psychosomatic hormonizers.”

They are used on an outpatient basis and in hospitals for myocardial infarction, treatment of diseases of internal organs, bronchial asthma, angina pectoris, and high blood pressure. Therapeutic dose – mg per day.

Clinical studies of new generation antidepressants

New generation antidepressants have proven themselves well in clinical trials that were conducted in Holland. When determining the effectiveness of drugs in vitro to assess their positive and negative aspects it is necessary to exclude the placebo effect. By it is meant psychological condition an improvement that is not justified by the biochemical effect of the drug.

Sertraline is the “gold standard” against which the effects of other antidepressants are compared.

Clinical studies in Holland have revealed some interesting features of modern drugs for the treatment of depressive conditions. Thus, in 42 independent studies, superiority in therapeutic effect was confirmed:

• Citalopram over reboxetine,
• Fluoxetine over fluvoxamine,
• Reboxetine over paroxetine,
• Escitalopram on citalopram,
• Mirtazopine with fluoxetine,
• Sertraline over fluoxetine.

In terms of tolerability, fluoxetine is noticeably released, which acts “gently”, but also healing effect it is weaker than other analogues.

Group combination therapy is more effective than mirtazapine, escitalopram, venflaxine and sertraline over fluvoscamine, fluoxetine and duloxetine. When using sertraline alone, the therapeutic effect is slightly lower than with combination therapy with vanlafaxine, mirtazapine and escitalopram.

Some modern new generation antidepressants have a pronounced effect on the serotonin and norepinephrine exchange systems in nerve cells. This mechanism of action allows them to be used in the treatment of chronic forms of the disease.

For example, venlafaxine (Effexor) is a selective serotonin receptor blocker, but when the dosage is increased, it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine.

Remeron (mirtazapine) is a tetracyclic antidepressant with a special mechanism of action. It increases histamine levels, affecting the postsynaptic level of serotonin metabolism. The drug is prescribed before bedtime for insomnia. This approach is explained by an increase in the concentration of histamine, which leads to drowsiness. However, mirtazapine also increases the level of norepinephrine, so in addition to its calming effect, it has side effects, like other antidepressants.

The Ukrainian antidepressant of the latest generation, Miaser, is actively discussed in the press. The manufacturer claims that it is not addictive, but in clinical practice there is a state of drowsiness and unsteadiness of gait in patients to whom it is prescribed for 2 weeks.

The results of Dutch studies confirmed that reboxetine has the weakest effect of all the antidepressants discussed above.

The experiments were carried out in a sample of 66 people in the treatment of depressive conditions. The drug is not registered in the Netherlands, as it shows minimal effectiveness in the treatment of mental disorders.

The latest generation of antidepressants that are prescribed in Russia (paroxetine and fluosetine) are not on the list of first-choice drugs in Russia. European countries.

Nodepress is rightfully considered one of the best remedies when highly effective antidepressants are required. It meets all international requirements that apply to this group of drugs. Nodepress has a wide range of uses. It does not have a sedative effect and does not cause drowsiness or lethargy. The drug is not addictive. Compatible with other medications.

Valdoxan is used primarily to normalize sleep. Its active ingredient, agomelatine, accelerates the release of dopamine in the prefrontal cortex, but does not affect serotonin levels. Agomelatine restores normal sleep structure and also reduces temperature caused by instability of neurological processes.

Indications for the use of Valdoxan are anxiety disorders (>25 on the Hamilton scale). The dosage of the drug is 25 mg once a day. The absence of clinical dynamics allows the doctor to increase the dose to 50 mg without fear of side effects. Throughout the entire period of treatment with agomelatine, liver function should be monitored, since the course is long (up to 6 months).

In conclusion, we note that modern antidepressants are prescribed for several months. Even after the symptoms of depression cease, they must be taken in reduced doses to avoid a recurrence of depressed mood.

New generation antidepressants: proper use and non-prescription drugs

Depression, unfortunately, is not just fatigue or blues, as many are accustomed to perceiving it, but a serious illness. But methods of treating it continue to progress.

There have been several generations of antidepressants, the latest of which is more effective. We will tell you about the features of their reception in this article.

Popular new generation antidepressants

Modern drugs of this profile are also called fourth-generation antidepressants. The period of their development starts in the 90s of the last century. These drugs are combined into a group called SSRIs (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).

The most popular means of this group include:

The latest generation of drugs has some advantages over earlier medications for depression.

1. The number of side effects has been reduced.
2. The result of the action appears faster.
3. The risk of addiction has been significantly reduced.
4. Compatible with a wide range of medications.

Modern antidepressants are divided into two groups based on their effect on the human psyche:

Clinical trials of antidepressants

Of all generations of antidepressants, the first generation drugs remained the most powerful for a long time. Their main disadvantage is the side effects that these medications can have on the body. The remedies of the next generations were distinguished by a more gentle effect, but at the same time the treatment process slowed down.

European experts conducted clinical studies of the latest generation antidepressants, according to the conclusions of which:

1. The antidepressant sertraline is considered the “gold standard”.
2. Moreover, its effect is enhanced when combined with vanlafaxine, mirtazapine and escitalopram.
3. Fluoxetine is very easily absorbed by the body, but its effect is weakened.
4. Reboxetine is one of the weakest antidepressants.
5. One of the most effective drugs is called “Nodepress” (it is not addictive and does not cause “lethargy”).
6. To normalize sleep, you need to take medications containing the substance agomelatine.

But it is impossible to name one universal remedy that is ideal for every person. Like other medications, antidepressants are selected individually for each organism.

When is a doctor's prescription required for antidepressants?

Drugs used to treat depression can be divided into two groups:

• mild (those that can be purchased without a prescription);
• strong (not available without a prescription).

A person most often needs potent drugs in the following cases:

1. Mental illness in the acute stage.
2. Atypical form of the disease.
3. A severe type of depression.

In such situations, it is necessary to consult a doctor; only he will be able to select the correct medications for depression and related diseases and their dosage.

In cases where medicine is faced with advanced forms of the disease, potent first-generation antidepressants, such as phenelzine or isocarboxazid, are prescribed for treatment. Among modern drugs, moclobemide is a worthy competitor to them.

You can find more useful information about antidepressants in our similar article.

What is special about antidepressants?

The drugs that we used to call antidepressants actually successfully fight in the human body not only against the disease called “depression.”

These drugs are also accepted:

• for pain of an unspecified nature;
• for sleep and appetite disorders;
• with constant fatigue;
• during anxiety attacks;
• for attention disorders;
• to relieve panic attacks;
• for alcohol and drug addiction;
• in case of bulimia nervosa or anorexia.

Correct technique

The best thing to do if you experience symptoms of depression is to see a doctor. In some cases, unauthorized treatment with antidepressants can lead to aggravation of the problem. The prescription of treatment with such drugs depends on whether your brain needs drugs that have a sedative or stimulating effect.

Some medications may work immediately, but in most cases, the effect of taking antidepressants appears within 2-4 weeks.

When taking weaker drugs, symptoms of depression begin to disappear only after 6-8 weeks of use. In the first few weeks, antidepressants relieve the disease, and in subsequent months of use they prevent its relapse.

Only in certain cases is preventive treatment with such drugs prescribed for up to several years.

When taking medications against depression, you need to carefully find out about the compatibility of each individual drug with other medications.

For example, the following side effects are known:

1. Antidepressants + antipsychotics, tranquilizers, antidepressants of other groups, oral contraceptives – slow down metabolism, increase side effects.
2. Antidepressants + anticonvulsants, barbiturates – decrease in the concentration of medicinal substances in the blood.
3. Antidepressants + sympathomimetics, thyroidin – development of tachycardia.

List of drugs without prescriptions

In addition to serious antidepressants, as mentioned above, there are a number of lighter medications. Their action really does not imply the treatment of a serious mental illness, but the relief of stress and fatigue.

The most popular stimulant antidepressants (and their analogues), which can easily be bought at a pharmacy, are:

Sedative antidepressants that you can get without a prescription:

Remember that even the most harmless antidepressants can cause side effects.

Conclusion

If you are thinking about going to the pharmacy and purchasing a drug with the big name antidepressant, answer yourself a few questions:

1. Am I really depressed? Perhaps you are simply overtired and do not need serious medication at all. Try drinking valerian and similar sedatives first.
2. What medications do I need? If it really overtook you psychological illness, you need to find out how strong the drugs specifically your nervous system needs. It may happen that by taking too light antidepressants you will only aggravate your illness, and heavy ones will bring unnecessary side effects.
3. What did the doctor say? Self-medication is not the best solution. Experienced specialists will examine you and help you choose the appropriate treatment.

The main thing to remember is that depression is also a disease. And antidepressants are medications, when taking which you need to be careful and follow all instructions.

Which antidepressants are most effective?

For people suffering from depression, strong antidepressants can be a real salvation. But many questions immediately arise. How to choose the best remedy from depression? What dosage will be effective and safe? Do I need a prescription from a doctor? Isn't the advertised "best antidepressant" just a mild cure for ordinary despondency?

But all these questions are very easy to answer. The main thing to remember is that powerful antidepressants that are sold only by prescription are not toys. They are truly addictive and can become a serious danger to your body. If antidepressants are required, only a doctor can tell which is best in a particular case. When treating prolonged depression with medication, it is important to know how to choose the right drug, which is strong, but good and safe.

Classification

Antidepressants are psychotropic drugs that help psychotherapists treat various types of depression. The appearance of these drugs created a real sensation among psychiatrists, because taking these drugs significantly improved the performance of patients, significantly reducing the percentage of suicides caused by prolonged depression.

With the development of drugs, classification also appeared. Antidepressants are divided into three groups, taking into account their effect on inhibitory mechanisms: calming, stimulating and balanced. They are all divided into 7 more types. Below is a list of groups of antidepressants depending on their effect on the body:

1. Tricyclic drugs. The first drugs to hit the market. They have many side effects (dry mucous membranes, tremors, constipation), which is why they are used less and less in psychiatry.
2. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. This type of antidepressant is considered stronger than the lungs and is often sold only by prescription, because if taken uncontrolled, it can cause seizures, crises and other serious health problems. Used for neurotic disorders, panic attacks.
3. Selective serotonin and norepinephrine uptake inhibitors. They are similar to the previous type. They work with depression associated with phobias or obsessive states. Works great with uncontrolled aggression and neurotic.
4. Heterocyclic antidepressants. Designed for older people with sleep disorders caused by mental illness. They are considered mild and relatively safe drugs.
5. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Strong antidepressants, divided into reversible and irreversible. Prescribed for panic attacks, fear of open spaces and psychosomatic manifestations of depression (when a severe psychological condition causes illness).
6. Serotonin reuptake activators. Strong new generation antidepressants. Extremely effective and quite versatile drugs that are addictive, just like opiates. Sold exclusively with a doctor's prescription.

There are many medications that help with depression. The main rule when choosing a medicine: do not rely on yourself or friends, it is better to consult a specialist. Only a qualified psychiatrist can choose the best drug for you and prescribe correct dosage. Do not self-medicate, it is dangerous to your health!

Destination Features

Which strong medications are sold only by prescription, and which can be bought at any pharmacy?

The dosage of even the mildest antidepressant can only be prescribed by a doctor.

Even good and expensive pills have side effects if overdose or uncontrolled use, not to mention strong and highly targeted medications.

Of course, the best remedy against depression at the moment is drugs such as selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake blockers of the new generation. They are the highest quality and most universal method of treating depression, but are available only with a prescription. This type of antidepressant is used for serious disorders, even with suicidal tendencies. Below is a list of such drugs:

1. Zoloft, Sirlift, Stimuloton. The basis of these drugs is the substance sertraline. These medications are called the “gold standard” for treating depression; they are the most effective and flexible treatments available today. They get rid of obsessive thoughts, anxiety and overeating.
2. Efevelon, Venlaxor, Velaxin. The active substance is venlafaxine. Prescribed for severe mental disorders, for example, schizophrenia, combined with depression.
3. Paxil, Rexetine, Sirestill, etc. Paroxetine contained in these medications helps with personality disorders, suicidal tendencies, anxiety. Also effective against mood changes, melancholy and inhibited depression.
4. Opipramol. The best choice for alcoholic depression. Among other things, the prevention of seizures and normalization of the autonomic nervous system makes it an excellent drug against somatization disorders.

In addition to the above medications, this group also includes mild medications like Prozac. They are often sold without a prescription, but can be just as dangerous to humans. This group is characterized by dangerous side effects that cannot be neglected. Choose good means Only an experienced psychiatrist can. Violation of the dosage or timing of administration can be fatal!

Herbal preparations and tranquilizers

Some experts prescribe herbal analogues of antidepressants to patients, assuring them that their effect is no less strong, but at the same time much safer. Such tinctures and decoctions can be recommended even in pharmacies as a useful addition to classical medicines. But no valerian, lemon balm, motherwort or mint are even mild antidepressants. Taking these drugs instead of the prescribed treatment will only worsen your condition. They produce some calming effect, but there can be no question of a full-fledged treatment of depression with their help. Real effect Only St. John's wort and medicines based on it can provide relief.

Medicines like Novopassit and Persen are also often prescribed in addition to antidepressants. These drugs can indeed be prescribed for mild disorders and depressed mood, but they have nothing to do with the treatment of depression.

Tranquilizers are a group of drugs that have much in common with the strong drugs described above, but are fundamentally different from them in their mode of action and purpose. These are very powerful and extremely dangerous substances that are used in the treatment of severe depression. They easily eliminate fear, emotional stress, anxiety, can lower blood pressure and normalize heart rate, but they quickly become addictive. This type of antidepressant should never be taken without the supervision of a physician.

Side effects

Antidepressants are notable for the fact that they have noticeable side effects if the dosage is incorrect or the course of treatment is too long. Even mild medications like Prozac have their limitations. But if in the case of them a person risks getting only a headache, then strong substances can cause seizures and even thrombosis. But this does not mean that all medications are free from simple side effects that can occur even when taken correctly.

Substances of the tricyclic group have the greatest number of side effects. Side effects include dry mucous membranes, difficulty urinating, constipation, changes in heart rate, trembling limbs and even blurred vision. Because of this, such medications are almost never used by modern doctors.

Selective serotonin and norepinephrine uptake inhibitors, together with heterocyclic antidepressants, have relatively harmless side effects. The former can cause headaches, drowsiness and anxiety, while the latter only increase appetite and promote weight gain. Such harmless effects cannot be compared with the effect of the next type of substance.

Strong new generation antidepressants can boast only one side effect. These drugs are highly addictive and in the past were often used as a means of obtaining an inexpensive high. Such handling of substances caused inflammation and thrombosis of the veins, and sometimes even seriously shortened life.

Antidepressants are an important and integral part of the treatment of any depression. These beneficial drugs have prevented millions of deaths from suicide. But when taking strong antidepressants, you need to be careful. Without consulting a doctor about taking them, you can easily ruin your life by becoming addicted to medications as a drug. Any medicine taken inappropriately can cause serious harm to the body. Self-medication - worst enemy medicine.

Antidepressants: which ones are better? Tools Overview

The term "antidepressants" speaks for itself. It refers to a group of medications used to combat depression. However, the scope of antidepressants is much wider than the name might suggest. In addition to depression, they know how to combat feelings of melancholy, anxiety and fears, relieve emotional stress, and normalize sleep and appetite. With the help of some of them they even fight smoking and nocturnal enuresis. And quite often, antidepressants are used as painkillers for chronic pain. Currently, there are a significant number of drugs that are classified as antidepressants, and their list is constantly growing. From this article you will learn about the most common and frequently used antidepressants.

How do antidepressants work?

Antidepressants affect the neurotransmitter systems of the brain through various mechanisms. Neurotransmitters are special substances through which various “information” is transmitted between nerve cells. Not only a person’s mood and emotional background, but also almost all nervous activity depends on the content and ratio of neurotransmitters.

The main neurotransmitters whose imbalance or deficiency is associated with depression are serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Antidepressants lead to normalization of the amount and ratio of neurotransmitters, thereby eliminating clinical manifestations depression. Thus, they have only a regulatory effect, and not a replacement, therefore they do not cause addiction (contrary to existing opinion).

There is not yet a single antidepressant, the effect of which would be visible already from the first taken pills. Most drugs take quite a long time to show their potential. This often causes patients to stop taking the drug on their own. After all, you want unpleasant symptoms to be eliminated, as if by magic. Unfortunately, such a “golden” antidepressant has not yet been synthesized. The search for new drugs is driven not only by the desire to accelerate the development of the effect of taking antidepressants, but also by the need to get rid of unwanted side effects and reduce the number of contraindications for their use.

Choosing an antidepressant

Choosing an antidepressant among the abundance of drugs presented on the pharmaceutical market is a rather difficult task. An important point that every person should remember is that an antidepressant cannot be chosen independently by a patient with an already established diagnosis or a person who has “discovered” the symptoms of depression. Also, the drug cannot be prescribed by a pharmacist (which is often practiced in our pharmacies). The same applies to changing the drug.

Antidepressants are by no means harmless drugs. They have a large number of side effects and also have a number of contraindications. Additionally, sometimes symptoms of depression are the first signs of another, more serious illness (such as a brain tumor), and uncontrolled reception Antidepressants can play a fatal role in this case for the patient. Therefore, such drugs should only be prescribed by the attending physician after an accurate diagnosis has been established.

Classification of antidepressants

All over the world, it is customary to divide antidepressants into groups according to their chemical structure. For doctors, at the same time, this distinction also means the mechanism of action of the drugs.

From this position, several groups of drugs are distinguished.

• non-selective (non-selective) - Nialamid, Isocarboxazid (Marplan), Iproniazid. To date, they are not used as antidepressants due to the large number of side effects;
• selective (selective) - Moclobemide (Aurorix), Pirlindol (Pyrazidol), Befol. Recently, the use of this subgroup of funds has been very limited. Their use is associated with a number of difficulties and inconveniences. The difficulty of use is due to the incompatibility of the drugs with drugs from other groups (for example, painkillers and cold medications), as well as the need to follow a diet when taking them. Patients must avoid eating cheese, legumes, liver, bananas, herring, smoked meats, chocolate, sauerkraut and a number of other products due to the possibility of developing the so-called “cheese” syndrome (high blood pressure with great risk myocardial infarction or stroke). Therefore, these drugs are already becoming a thing of the past, giving way to more “convenient” medications to use.

Non-selective neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitors (that is, drugs that block the uptake of all neurotransmitters by neurons without exception):

• tricyclic antidepressants - Amitriptyline, Imipramine (Imizin, Melipramine), Clomipramine (Anafranil);
• four-cyclic antidepressants (atypical antidepressants) – Maprotiline (Lyudiomil), Mianserin (Lerivon).

Selective neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitors:

• serotonin - Fluoxetine (Prozac, Prodel), Fluvoxamine (Fevarin), Sertraline (Zoloft). Paroxetine (Paxil), Cipralex, Cipramil (Cytahexal);
• serotonin and norepinephrine – Milnacipran (Ixel), Venlafaxine (Velaxin), Duloxetine (Cymbalta),
• norepinephrine and dopamine - Bupropion (Zyban).

Antidepressants with a different mechanism of action: Tianeptine (Coaxil), Sydnofen.

The subgroup of selective neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitors is currently the most commonly used worldwide. This is due to the relatively good tolerability of the drugs, a small number of contraindications and wide possibilities for use not only for depression.

From a clinical point of view, antidepressants are quite often divided into drugs with a predominantly sedative (calming), activating (stimulating) and harmonizing (balanced) effect. The latter classification is convenient for the attending physician and the patient, since it reflects the main effects of drugs, in addition to antidepressant. Although, in fairness, it is worth saying that it is not always possible to clearly distinguish between drugs according to this principle.

Drugs with a sedative effect include Amitriptyline, Mianserin, Fluvoxamine; with balanced action - Maprotiline, Tianeptine, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Milnacipran, Duloxetine; with an activating effect - Fluoxetine, Moclobemide, Imipramine, Befol. It turns out that even within the same subgroup of drugs, with the same structure and mechanism of action, there are significant differences for an additional, so to speak, therapeutic effect.

Features of the use of antidepressants

Firstly, antidepressants in most cases require a gradual increase in dose to an individually effective one, that is, in each specific case the dose of the drug will be different. After achieving the effect, the drug is continued to be taken for some time, and then discontinued as gradually as it was started. This regimen allows you to avoid side effects and relapse of the disease during abrupt withdrawal.

Secondly, there are no instant-acting antidepressants. It is impossible to get rid of depression within 1-2 days. Therefore, antidepressants are prescribed for a long time, and the effect appears in the 1-2 week of use (or even later). Only if after a month from the start of treatment there are no positive changes in well-being, the drug is replaced with another.

Thirdly, almost all antidepressants are undesirable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Their use is not compatible with alcohol consumption.

Another feature of the use of antidepressants is that early onset sedative or activating effect than directly antidepressant. Sometimes this quality becomes the basis for choosing a drug.

Almost all antidepressants have an unpleasant side effect in the form of sexual dysfunction. This may be a decrease in libido, anorgasmia, erectile dysfunction. Of course, this complication of antidepressant therapy does not occur in all patients, and although this problem is very delicate, it should not be kept silent about. In any case, sexual dysfunction is completely temporary.

Each group of drugs has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, tricyclic antidepressants have a good and fairly rapid antidepressant effect, are quite cheap (compared to other groups), but cause tachycardia, urinary retention and increased intraocular pressure, and a decrease in cognitive (mental) functions. Because of these side effects, they cannot be used by people with prostate adenoma, glaucoma and heart rhythm problems, which are quite common in old age. But the group of selective neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitors is devoid of such side effects, but these antidepressants begin to fulfill their main purpose after 2 or even 3 weeks from the start of use, and their price category is not cheap. In addition, there is information about their lower clinical effectiveness when severe depression.

To summarize the above, it turns out that the choice of an antidepressant should be personalized as much as possible. As many different factors as possible should be taken into account when prescribing a particular drug. And certainly the “neighbor” rule should not apply in this case: what helped one person can harm another.

Let's take a closer look at a number of the most commonly used antidepressants.

Amitriptyline

A drug from the group of tricyclic antidepressants. It has high bioavailability and, among drugs in its group, good tolerability. Available in the form of tablets and solution for injection (which is necessary in severe cases). Taken orally after meals, starting smg daily. The dose is gradually increased until the desired effect occurs. When the signs of depression subside, the dose should be reduced to 1 mg/day and taken for a long time (several months).

The most common side effects include dry mouth, urinary retention, dilated pupils and blurred vision, drowsiness and dizziness, hand tremors, heart rhythm disturbances, memory and thinking impairment.

The drug is contraindicated in cases of increased intraocular pressure, prostate adenoma, and severe cardiac conduction disorders.

In addition to depression, it can be used for neuropathic pain (including migraine), nocturnal enuresis in children, and psychogenic appetite disorders.

Mianserin (Lerivon)

This is a well-tolerated drug with a moderate sedative effect. In addition to depression, it can be used in the treatment of fibromyalgia. The effective dose is from 30 to 120 mg/day. It is recommended to divide the daily dose into 2-3 doses.

Of course, this drug, like others, has its side effects. But they develop in a very small number of patients. The most common side effects from taking Lerivon include weight gain, increased liver enzymes, and minor swelling.

The drug should not be used for people under 18 years of age, for liver disease, or for allergic intolerance to it. If possible, it should not be taken by people with diabetes, prostate adenoma, renal, liver, heart failure, or closed-angle glaucoma.

Tianeptine (Coaxil)

The drug is actively used not only for the treatment of depression, but also for neuroses, menopausal syndrome, and in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. One of the accompanying effects of its use is the normalization of sleep.

Take Coaxil 12.5 mg 3 times a day before meals. It has practically no contraindications (cannot be used before the age of 15, simultaneously with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and in case of individual intolerance), therefore it is often prescribed in old age.

Side effects may include dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and increased heart rate.

Fluoxetine (Prozac)

This is perhaps one of the most popular drugs of the latest generation. It is preferred by both doctors and patients. Doctors - for high efficiency, patients - for ease of use and good tolerability. Fluoxetine is also produced by a domestic manufacturer, so a drug with that name is also quite economical. Prozac is manufactured in the UK, so it is quite an expensive drug, especially considering the need for long-term use.

The only drawback, perhaps, is the relatively delayed antidepressant effect. Usually, a lasting improvement in the condition develops in the 2-3rd week of use. The drug is taken in dosemg/day, and different patterns of use are possible (only in the morning or twice a day). For older people maximum daily dose is no more than 60 mg. Eating food does not affect the absorption of the drug.

The drug can be safely used in people with cardiovascular and urological pathologies.

Although side effects are rare when using Fluoxetine, they do occur. This is sleepiness headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth. The drug is contraindicated only in case of individual intolerance.

Venlafaxine (Velaxin)

Refers to new drugs that are only gaining momentum in the treatment of depressive disorders. It is taken immediately at 37.5 mg 2 times a day (that is, it does not require gradual dose adjustment). In rare cases (with severe depression), it may be necessary to increase the daily dosage to 150 mg. But at the end of treatment, you need to reduce the dosage as gradually as when using most antidepressants. Venlafaxine must be taken with food.

Venlafaxine has interesting feature: These are dose-dependent side effects. This means that if one of the side effects occurs, it is necessary to reduce the dosage of the drug for a while. At long-term use the frequency and severity of side effects (if any) are reduced, and there is no need to change the drug. The most common side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, constipation, nausea, vomiting, increased blood cholesterol, increased blood pressure, redness of the skin, and dizziness.

Contraindications to the use of Venlafaxine are as follows: age under 18 years, severe impairment of liver and kidney function, individual intolerance, simultaneous use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Also a new drug. It is recommended to take 60 mg 1 time per day, regardless of meals. The maximum daily dose is 120 mg. Duloxetine can be used as a means of relieving pain in diabetic polyneuropathy, chronic pain syndrome for fibromyalgia.

Side effects: often causes loss of appetite, insomnia, headache, dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, constipation, increased fatigue, increased urination, increased sweating.

Duloxetine is contraindicated in renal and liver failure, glaucoma, uncontrolled arterial hypertension, up to 18 years of age, with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Bupropion (Zyban)

This antidepressant is known as an effective remedy for combating nicotine addiction. But it is also quite good as a simple antidepressant. Its advantage over a number of other drugs is the absence of side effects in the form of sexual dysfunction. If such a side effect occurs when using, for example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, then the patient should be switched to taking Bupropion. There are studies that have even shown an improvement in the quality of sexual life in people without depression while taking this drug. You just need to interpret this fact correctly: Bupropion does not affect sex life healthy person, but only works if there are any problems in this area (which means it is not Viagra).

Bupropion is also used in the treatment of obesity and neuropathic pain.

The usual regimen for using Bupropion is as follows: the first week, take 150 mg 1 time per day, regardless of meals, and then 150 mg 2 times a day for several weeks.

Bupropion is not without side effects. This may include dizziness and unsteadiness when walking, trembling limbs, dry mouth and abdominal pain, bowel disorders, itchy skin or rash, epileptic seizures.

The drug is contraindicated for epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic diseases liver and kidneys, under the age of 18 and after 60 years.

By and large, there is no ideal antidepressant. Each drug has its own disadvantages and advantages. And individual sensitivity is also one of the main factors in the effectiveness of a particular antidepressant. And although it is not always possible to hit depression in the very heart on the first try, there will definitely be a drug that will become a salvation for the patient. The patient will definitely come out of depression, you just need to be patient.

Today, depression affects not only adults, but also children and adolescents. Many specialist studies and a huge number of articles and books have been devoted to this disease and methods of combating it. If translated from “scientific” into ordinary language, depression is a loss of strength and desire to live. Symptoms of this disease are apathy and constant anxiety and fatigue, lethargy and gloom.

Modern pharmacology offers the latest generation of antidepressants to combat this disease. How many generations of thymoleptics (also called drugs that work against depression) exist today, what do they have in common and how do they differ from each other, what is their mechanism of action? These and other questions will be discussed in the article presented to your attention.

What are antidepressants?

Thanks to which you can relieve symptoms and even prevent depressive conditions. The main mechanism of their action is aimed at adjusting the biochemical activity of the human brain. its components constantly interact with each other through special substances - neurotransmitters. According to one theory, depressive disorders occur when in the brain, for various reasons, the level of any mediator or biogenic amine: dopamine, norepinephrine or serotonin decreases significantly. Antidepressants of the latest generation, like all previous ones, have a regulating and corrective effect on the biochemical processes of the brain by changing the concentration of one or another biogenic amine.

What are they needed for?

In addition to the fact that modern antidepressants help cope with the symptoms of depression, they are often used to get rid of the following problems:

• various pains of unknown origin;
• appetite or sleep disturbances;
• severe fatigue or loss of strength;
• nervousness or feelings of constant tension;
• attacks of nervousness or anxiety;
• problems concentrating or remembering.

Generations of antidepressants

Before considering how many generations of drugs against depression have been created to date, we need to remember that antidepressants were discovered only in the middle of the 20th century. Today, depending on the time of invention and the beginning of use in clinical practice, as well as on the effect of antidepressants, it is customary to distinguish four generations of these drugs.

First generation drugs

The first generation, discovered in the 50s of the last century, is represented by cyclic tricyclic thymoleptics (TCAs). These include the following medicines: “Amitriptyline” (antidepressant, the very first one discovered) and its derivatives, as well as the drugs “Nefazodone”, “Anafranil” and “Melipramine”. These compounds block the reuptake of norepinephrine, thereby increasing its concentration. However, TCAs blocked not only norepinephrine (norepinephrine), but also all other neurotransmitters that came in their way, which led to a large number unpleasant side effects, especially such as sharp increase blood pressure and increased heart rate. Drugs in this group are quite toxic, and the likelihood of an overdose when using them is very high, which is why they are so little used in the treatment of depressive disorders today.

In addition, the first generation includes drugs that are no longer used today and contain irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) - Iproniazid, Tranylcypromine, Isocarboxazid. Their action is based on suppressing the activity of the nerve endings of brain neurons, resulting in an increase in the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine.

Second generation drugs

The second generation, unlike the first, has a more selective, but also weaker effect on neurotransmitters and the neurons themselves. It includes tetracyclic irreversible (MAO-B) and reversible (MAO-A) monoamine reuptake inhibitors, represented by drugs such as Lerivon, Ludiomil, Pyrazidol and a number of others. Due to the fact that many quite serious side effects occurred when taking them, as well as due to interaction with different drugs and unpredictability of effects, drugs in this group are used extremely rarely. It is quite difficult to find antidepressants from the group of monoamine reuptake inhibitors in pharmacies. But in some cases they are found under other trade names. So, experts say that the drug “Lyudiomil” is the same tablets “Maprotiline”, the price, manufacturer and country are just different.

Third generation

Modern researchers have found that about 30 mediators are involved in the functioning of the brain and nervous system, but only three of them are “involved” in depression: serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine (norepinephrine). The third generation includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), represented by the most commonly used modern antidepressants such as Zoloft, Citalopram, Prozac, Cipralex, Paroxetine, Plizil and many others. These medications do not block all mediators, but only one - serotonin. In terms of their potency, they are inferior to first-generation drugs, but they have significantly fewer side effects than any other predecessors. All SSRI drugs are very effective and should be tolerated approximately equally by patients. However, each of us has its own individual characteristics, and it is because of them that the number and severity of side effects will vary in each specific case. Doctors say the most common side effects of taking third-generation drugs are insomnia, dizziness, nausea and anxiety.

SSRI drugs are quite expensive. Thus, for the fairly well-known and widely used drug “Citalopram”, the price in pharmacies, depending on the brand under which it is released, can vary from 870 to 2000 rubles.

Fourth generation antidepressants

These usually include drugs from the SSRI group (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). These are the latest generation antidepressants, such as Cymbalta, Milnacipran, Remeron, Effexor, which block the uptake of both norepinephrine and serotonin. The drugs Zyban and Wellbutrin do not interact with serotonin, but retain dopamine and norepinephrine. The development of drugs belonging to this group began only in the mid-90s of the last century, and every year more and more new drugs appear.

Doctors cannot say unequivocally that this particular group contains the best antidepressant; this is basically impossible, since for the treatment of various types of depressive disorders, medications are selected individually, taking into account the health characteristics of each patient.

Popular modern thymoleptics

Knowing about the serious impact of drugs in this group on the nervous system, it is necessary to remember that all possible - both positive and negative - consequences can only be predicted and leveled qualified specialist- doctor. Taking into account all the individual characteristics and having made a diagnosis, it is the doctor who will be able to prescribe exactly those antidepressants that can best help in your particular case, with minimal side effects. If any problems arise while taking the prescribed medication, it is the attending physician who will be able to adjust or change the treatment regimen. Today, most practitioners recommend drugs from the group of selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors to patients with depressive disorders. effective impact which have been tested in practice. Medicines such as Milnacipran, Fluxen (Fluoxetine), Duloxetine, Velaxin (Venlafaxine) are the most typical and widely used antidepressants of the latest generation. Let's consider the most popular thymoleptics in the treatment of depressive disorders.

Medicine "Flucosetine"

This drug is one of the first representatives of the SSRI group; it combines both antidepressant and stimulant effects. The medicine "Fluxen", also known as the antidepressant "Fluoxetine", helps reduce anxiety and tension, eliminates feelings of fear and improves mood. Its most effective use, according to practicing psychotherapists, is in cases of asthenic depressive disorders with apathy, as well as depression varying degrees heaviness and obsessive states. This medicine is also used in the treatment of bulimia. The antidepressant Fluoxetine was first registered in 1974 in the USA, and in the last decade it has become a top seller in the UK, only under a different trade name - Prozac. In Russia, this medicine is widely used, and many practicing doctors confirm that they prescribe it or its generics to patients for various depressive conditions.

The drug "Paroxetine"

This is the most powerful representative of the group of selective inhibitors of selective serotonin uptake, widely used in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Today there are drugs active substance of which paroxetine is, there are quite a few. This includes the Russian drug “Adepress” from Veropharm, the drug “Plizil” from the Croatian company Pliva, the Hungarian tablets “Rexetine” from and many others. Regardless of the name of the drug "Paroxetine", reviews of it from both patients and doctors are mostly positive.

The drug "Wellbutrin"

Better known as "Zyban" or "NoSmoke". The active ingredient in all three drugs is bupropion hydrochloride, which increases the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Medicines containing this active ingredient not only relieve symptoms of depression, but also help overcome the emotional consequences of quitting nicotine. This medication improves mood and increases performance. Reviews from those who got rid of nicotine addiction with the help of drugs such as Wellbutrin, KnowSmoke and Zyban indicate the high effectiveness of these drugs during the period of smoking cessation.

Medicine "Cymbalta"

A drug of the fourth generation of antidepressants, which is an inhibitor of the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, simultaneously carrying out a slight uptake of dopamine. This drug, the active ingredient of which is duloxetine, has a rather high speed of action compared to other antidepressants. According to reviews from both doctors and patients, a clear antidepressant effect appears by the end of the first - beginning of the second week of use. In addition, this drug is characterized by uniform action throughout the entire time of its use. However, there is a group of patients, according to whose reviews the effect of this medicine, if it occurs, is very weak. As already mentioned, individual characteristics of the course of biochemical reactions quite often lead to the fact that one or another medication prescribed by a doctor may not have the expected result.

What is the price?

Today it is quite difficult to talk about prices for medicines. This is due to the fact that the foreign exchange market is extremely unstable, and new antidepressants for the most part come to us from foreign manufacturers, whose prices are presented in euros. That is why the table below presents the minimum and maximum prices in rubles, since it is simply impossible to average them. Some of the drugs that were received earlier are still sold at the old prices, while new ones are much more expensive.

If you carefully look at the table, you will notice that it does not contain second-generation drugs, namely MAOIs (monoamine reuptake inhibitors). It's not a mistake. The thing is that these antidepressants, which have a large number of unpleasant side effects and are incompatible with many drugs, are practically not used in European countries. In the USA, the medications “Isocarboxazid”, “Ugenelzin” and “Tranylcypromine” are used quite rarely, and in our country the drug “Nialamide” is used. All of the above medications are available only under the supervision of psychiatrists.

This table clearly shows that the price for “classical” tricyclic antidepressants is significantly lower than for newer drugs from the SSRI and SSRI groups. Thus, it is not possible to talk about the high availability of effective antidepressant drugs for the majority of the population. However, your doctor can help you choose a less expensive drug with similar properties, the so-called generic.

Interaction with other drugs

Antidepressants can interact with other medications, even those that seem absolutely safe and familiar to us. The most active in this regard are tricyclic thymoanaleptics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, but drugs from the SSRI and SSRI groups practically do not interact with other medications. In any case, if your doctor prescribes you any medications against depression, be sure to find out whether you can combine them with the use of other medications, dietary supplements, and even teas and herbal decoctions.

Strange as it may sound, many people who need to take thymoleptics for various reasons ask the question of how often they can combine taking “hot” drinks and pills for depression. The answer to this question is quite simple: do you want to risk your mental and physical health, and maybe even life, try it! The fact is that both alcohol and antidepressants have a serious effect on the central nervous system and the brain, and such double pressure can negatively affect both the “flight control center” itself, that is, the brain, and the organs and systems subordinate to it. Whether or not it is worth combining is a decision that you and only you can make.

Instead of a conclusion

You shouldn’t think and rack your brains about which antidepressants are better and more effective. If you feel that each new day is becoming more difficult to live than the previous one, that you don’t have enough strength even for the simplest and most mundane things, contact a specialist! The doctor will be able to diagnose your disease and prescribe the necessary treatment, choosing the most suitable medications for you. These may not only be antidepressants. The arsenal of today's medicine is quite extensive: various types of psychotherapy, physical activity and acupuncture, breathing practices and physiotherapeutic procedures.

People who feel depressed and are unable to cope with it need help, which can be provided by certain medications, including over-the-counter antidepressants.

Strictly speaking, self-medication with antidepressants is not the best idea, because the patient cannot take into account all the factors and features of pharmacological treatment, which makes self-prescription prescription drugs dangerous to health. But sometimes it is impossible to see a doctor for some reason, but help is still needed. What can be done in this case?

Most effective ways solutions to the problem are the support of relatives and the help of a specialist (psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist, depending on the person’s condition and the cause of the illness). Apathy, indifference and lack of positive emotions are characteristic features of depression. Sometimes it is difficult to overcome the overwhelming hopelessness, so drug treatment is required.

Each person experiences stress and depression differently. Depression can be accompanied by various manifestations:

• irritability;
• loss of appetite;
• sleep disturbance;
• anxiety;
• apathy;
• fear;
• yearning;
• tearfulness;
• skin rashes;
• disruption of the digestive system;
• allergy.

In addition, it may appear increased sweating, tachycardia and even shortness of breath. If there are three or more signs, you should consult a doctor who, after examination and clarification of the circumstances, will recommend which drug is most suitable.

Most psychoactive drugs should be taken according to a special regimen, dosages should be strictly observed, first gradually increasing them, then decreasing them using the same method. Many medications have a cumulative effect, requiring time for them to take effect and time for the patient to feel well without them.

But in cases where only the first signs of the disease are observed, over-the-counter antidepressants, weaker medications with fewer side effects, are quite appropriate.

Important! Whether a prescription is required to use the drug or not, you must follow strict rule– Only a doctor can prescribe medicine. The doctor determines the dosage and duration of the course.

The main difference between medications that are sold freely in pharmacies is that they are intended for mild depression, or subdepression - a short-term decrease in mood.

The composition of the products may be different, they differ from each other chemical formula, main active substances and additional components.

What they have in common is a minimal number of side effects and contraindications. As a rule, antidepressants without a doctor's prescription are based on plants. But even if the composition includes artificially synthesized chemical elements, their concentration makes the drug harmless.

Strong antidepressants without prescriptions are a myth. MAOIs, tricyclics, SOZS and other neurotransmitter retake inhibitors are not sold without a special document from a psychiatrist.

What drugs can be purchased without a prescription?

The list of such funds is quite extensive. Medicines that can lift your mood, reduce irritability, improve sleep and restore appetite are not necessarily powerful. You can change your condition for the better with the help of mild antidepressants and sedatives. plant based.

Below are the medications that are most popular.

Deprim

Herbal remedy based on St. John's wort herb extract. Additional components are stabilizers. Preservatives and fillers are intended for the manufacture of solid dosage forms. Also contains lactose and calcium dihydrate.

The drug normalizes the functionality of the nervous system, improves sleep and mood due to the substances contained in the plant:

1. A phloroglucinol derivative, hyperforin, is a powerful inhibitor of a group of neurotransmitters. It is a strong anxiolytic and antidepressant that activates receptor potential ion channels. In addition, the element has antibiotic properties and is active against strains of staphylococcus resistant to methicillin. It is also able to remove inflammation.
2. Another substance, hypericin, improves the functioning of the autonomic and nervous systems. Affects dopaminergic structures, converting this hormone into norepinephrine. Thanks to the element, mild and moderate depression can be easily cured.

A significant advantage of the drug Deprim is the combination of high safety and effectiveness and low cost. The price for a pack of medicine containing two blisters of 15 tablets is 250 rubles.

It is prescribed in the following cases:

• emotional exhaustion;
• chronic fatigue;
• depression;
• weather dependence;
• mood swings during menopause.

The composition is prescribed for oral administration. The dosage is 1-3 tablets three times a day, depending on age. The therapeutic effect is observed 10 days after the start of use. General course treatment - a month.

Contraindications for use are as follows:

• age up to 6 years;
• depression with suicidal tendencies;
• intolerance to components.

In most cases, the drug is well tolerated, but if the dosage is exceeded, side effects may develop in the form of dyspeptic disorders and allergies.

Important! Deprim should not be combined with cyclosporine and theophylline. It is strictly forbidden to drink alcohol during treatment.

In addition to Deprim, drugs such as Negrustin, Gelarium and a number of others have been created based on St. John's wort. Doctors emphasize that there have been no reliable and large-scale studies on the effectiveness and side effects of these herbal medicines.

Persen

This mild antidepressant is on the list of medications most often prescribed by psychiatrists. It contains three types of plant extracts:

• Melissa;
• valerian;
• peppermint.

Available in tablet form, it acts as an antispasmodic, quickly eliminates irritability and calms. In addition, the drug provides complete sleep without causing daytime drowsiness. The effectiveness of the composition is due to valerian, which contains alkaloids and essential oils. The plant relieves vasospasm and nervous excitement.

Melissa is an antispasmodic and antidepressant, which also has anxiolytic and immunomodulatory properties. The natural substance not only soothes and restores stable emotional condition, also fights viruses and germs. The plant improves appetite and helps eliminate signs of toxicosis during pregnancy.

Terpenoids and menthol, which are contained in mint, have a beneficial effect on the emotional background and relieve headaches.

The leaves are used during menopause and for stress as a sedative. The substance also helps prevent anorexia, protects against infections and inflammatory processes.

Persen is indicated when there is no need to use potent drugs; it is used in the following cases:

• neuroses;
• when withdrawing sedatives;
• disorders in the autonomic nervous system;
• during menopause;
• for the prevention of pathologies in people with poor resistance to stress.

The medicine is well tolerated, there are very few side effects. These include allergic manifestations and constipation with long-term use. It is contraindicated for the following conditions and diseases:

• lactose and fructose intolerance;
• the presence of stones in the gall bladder and kidneys;
• pregnancy;
• lactation period;
• reduced arterial pressure.

Also not prescribed for children under 12 years of age. The dosage is 2-3 tablets in several doses per day. For insomnia, you should take the medication an hour before going to bed. The course of treatment should last no more than 90 days. The average cost of a package with 40 tablets is 300-400 rubles.

For reference! Persen can enhance the effect of antihypertensive, hypnotic and analgesic compounds, so dose adjustments are required.

Novo-Passit

The composition of this medication includes a whole list medicinal herbs with different properties:

1. Hawthorn. This plant began to be used for medicinal purposes back in the 16th century. It was originally intended as an astringent for diarrhea. Later, its ability to purify the blood and have a beneficial effect on blood vessels was discovered. The plant contains flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids, which explains its functions as a cardiotonic,
2. St. John's wort is a natural antidepressant from the Malpighiaceae genus. This perennial shrub in extract form is effective for anxiety disorders, improves emotional well-being, and eliminates depression and depression. It is often used in therapeutic complexes for alcohol, drug and drug addiction.
3. A plant of the passionflower family, passionflower contains glycosides, saccharides, and amino acids. It has been used in sedatives for a very long time. Helps with sleep disorders, seizures and even epilepsy. Eliminates fear and nervousness, effective for irritability. In combination with hawthorn it has an enhanced effect.
4. Hops belong to the genus of flowering hemp plants. Contains anthocyonides, catechins, phenolcarboxylic acids. It is considered a mild sedative, which is slightly inferior to the potency of valerian. Suppresses the activation of chemical carcinogens and prevents angiogenesis. Hops also prevents the development of tumors.
5. The medicinal essential oil herbal lemon balm is another natural antidepressant and anxiolytic. The plant is able to fight viruses and bacteria and protects against infections. In addition, it stimulates immune mechanisms and helps strengthen the body. The herb increases appetite and performance, improves mood.
6. A flowering plant of the Adoxaceae family, elderberry disinfects, relieves inflammation and helps in the treatment of gout and rheumatism. The spectrum of its action is quite extensive. Elderberry copes well with pain of various etiologies, removes anxiety, fear and apathy. In addition, it is suitable for improving metabolism and treating skin pigmentation disorders.

In addition to plants, the drug contains the main active substance – guaifenesin. This element is considered a mucolytic, which helps evacuate secretions in respiratory diseases. But in combination with herbs, it exhibits sedative properties and eliminates feelings of melancholy and depression.

Indications for the use of Novo-Passit are as follows:

• neurasthenia;
• migraine;
• mental stress;
• syndromes during menopause;
• sleep disorders;
• functional disorders of neuroendocrine regulation;
• fatigue;
• decreased performance and attention.

The list of contraindications is short. This is myasthenia gravis and intolerance to any of the components of the medication. It is also not prescribed to children under 12 years of age. Therapy for alcoholism and serious pathologies of the digestive system should be carried out under supervision.

It cannot be said that this is the most cheap drug, the cost varies between 300-330 rubles. for 300 ml of syrup and 170-200 rubles. for 10 tablets.

For reference! Novo-Passit should be taken with caution in case of epilepsy and after head injuries. In such cases, the doctor adjusts the duration and dosage regimen.

At simultaneous use with muscle relaxants, side effects such as muscle weakness. The impact of hormonal contraception is also reduced, which must be taken into account when taking it.

Afobazole

This drug is more likely to be an anxiolytic with a neuroprotective effect that protects cells from damage. It has a dual effect on the nervous system. At the same time relieves anxiety and depression and stimulates memory, emotions and motor skills.

Its functions are based on that. that it prevents changes in receptors that occur during the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid, an inhibitory neurotransmitter. The result is a sedative and muscle relaxant effect.

A distinctive feature of the medication is that, according to the manufacturer, it helps to get rid of excessive suspiciousness and uncertainty, while memory and concentration remain within normal limits.

The first result is observed already on the fifth day of treatment, and the full therapeutic effect appears after 4 weeks and persists for another 14 days after discontinuation of the drug.

The medication is well absorbed and distributed throughout systems where it binds to protein compounds. It is also quickly eliminated from the body, which virtually eliminates complications after an overdose. Its price for 690 tablets is 350-400 rubles.

Indications for the use of Afobazole are as follows:

• anxiety states of various etiologies;
• mental disorders;
• neuroses;
• disorders of the autonomic and vascular system;
• premenstrual syndrome;
• menopause period;
• alcoholism treatment;
• irritability associated with quitting smoking.

Do not take the drug during pregnancy and lactation. Do not prescribe the medicine if you are hypersensitive to its components. It is also contraindicated for children. Adverse reactions are associated with intolerance to the substances included in the composition, expressed in allergic manifestations and dysfunctions of the digestive system.

The optimal dosage is 10-30 mg per day, divided into three doses. The course of treatment lasts 4 weeks, but in some cases the doctor can extend it to 3 months.

If there is a need to take medicine while breastfeeding, lactation will have to be abandoned. With simultaneous consumption of alcohol, the toxic effect on brain cells increases, and the therapeutic properties of the drug are leveled.

The pharmaceutical industry offers a huge list of effective treatments for depression. If depression has just begun to manifest itself, over-the-counter herbal antidepressants are suitable. But even such safe compounds should be prescribed by a doctor, as they can also cause adverse reactions and have contraindications.

Important! Even with mild emotional disorders the help of a specialist (psychotherapist or psychiatrist) should not be avoided. If the cause is not identified, the most effective drugs will be useless or even harmful.

Many people, in the slightest stressful situations, grab pills without even really understanding whether they can be taken and what will happen after that.

It is necessary to understand that anxiety states differ from neuroses, and depression differs from mental disorders. And only a doctor can deal with the patient’s problems and help eliminate them without negative consequences.

Ask an expert a question in the comments

Every second resident of the metropolis suffers from depression. To treat this disease, psychiatrists or neurologists prescribe special medications. Many patients are interested in whether it is possible to buy strong antidepressants without a doctor's prescription. It is important to note that to purchase a powerful remedy, a prescription is required, because they have a lot of contraindications. There are mild medications that can help cope with the symptoms of a nervous disorder and are available without a prescription.

Indications for the use of antidepressants

Before buying anti-depression pills without a prescription at the pharmacy, it is important to make sure that the problem requires drug therapy. Perhaps a person only needs to eliminate the factors that provoke the development of symptoms of the disease. Experts recommend reviewing your lifestyle, avoiding stress, and getting more rest before starting to take the pills. For people with major depressive disorders, over-the-counter medications are not suitable. This category of patients definitely needs specialist consultation and comprehensive treatment.

All antidepressants have side effects and contraindications, so before using them it is important to consult a neurologist or psychiatrist. The drugs have different chemical compositions, structures, and different ways of affecting the body. The same medicine can affect different patients differently, so you should not treat depression with medications yourself. This is especially true for chronic forms of mental illness.

If you need to reduce the susceptibility of the nervous system to external stimuli, you can use mild antidepressants without prescriptions. Such medications significantly improve a person’s quality of life without causing serious harm to health. They can be used for the following pathological conditions:

• pain of an unspecified nature;
• anorexia;
• sleep disturbance, appetite disturbance;
• bulimia;
• groundless anxiety;
• attention disorder;
• chronic fatigue;
• alcohol addiction;
• irritability;
• drug addict.

Antidepressants without a prescription, plant-based

Herbal medications for depression are considered the safest. They will help with stress, nervous exhaustion, various phobias, appetite and sleep disorders. Herbal remedies for depression without prescriptions do not have a negative effect and have a gentle effect on the body. Before taking any tablets or capsules, you should carefully read the composition, indications, side symptoms and instructions for use.

Novo-passit

This remedy is one of the most popular antidepressants based on natural ingredients. The composition of the herbal preparation includes extracts of the following herbs:

• hop;
• St. John's wort;
• hawthorn;
• Melissa;
• valerian.

This mild antidepressant is especially popular among office workers, for whom the state of permanent stress and continuous time pressure has become habitual. Novo-Passit helps cope with menopausal syndrome, neurocirculatory dystonia, irritability, migraine, increased nervousness, neurasthenia, and normalizes sleep. The drug provides a stable sedative effect. You can buy the Medicine in the form of tablets or syrup. The price varies from 200 to 600 rubles.

Before starting to use the drug without a prescription, it is worth studying the contraindications. These include the following:

• myasthenia gravis;
• age up to 12 years;
• allergy to components:
• liver diseases;
• epilepsy;
• traumatic brain injuries;
• acute diseases of the digestive tract;
• alcoholism;
• brain diseases.

If you do not follow the instructions, taking Novo-Passit may cause problems with concentration, drowsiness, nausea, and cramps. Tablets are taken 1 pc. three times daily with an interval of 4–6 hours. It is allowed to double the dosage if the patient has a serious condition. During development side symptoms drink ½ tablet at a time. The syrup is taken three times a day, 5–10 ml. If the patient does not tolerate the antidepressant well, then the single dose is reduced to 2.5 mg.

Persen

Another popular drug based on natural ingredients, which can be bought without a prescription from a doctor. Especially for patients with interrupted sleep, insomnia, early awakenings There is a separate form of the drug - Persen night. The standard version of the drug is different soft action. The antidepressant is available in tablet form and contains lemon balm extract, peppermint, valerian. The medicine provides a pronounced antispasmodic, sedative effect, and fights increased excitability. The cost of tablets is 195–250 rubles.

Persen is effective for various types of nervous system disorders. Indications for the use of tablets are as follows:

• neuroses for which potent therapy is not necessary;
• vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• insomnia;
• prevention of psychosomatic manifestations in people exposed to stress.

While taking pills, patients may develop constipation, allergic reactions, bronchospasm, peripheral edema. Before you start using Persen, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications. These include the following:

• fructose or lactose intolerance;
• cholangitis;
• glucose-galactose malabsorption;
• cholelithiasis;
• age up to 12 years;
• arterial hypotension;
• lactation period;
• pregnancy;
• gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Persen involves the use of the drug orally, regardless of food intake. The tablets must be washed down with water. Adults and adolescents over 12 years of age are recommended to use them 2-3 times a day, 1 pc. For insomnia, take 2-3 tablets 30-60 minutes before bedtime. You can't drink more than 12 pieces. per day to avoid drug overdose. The course of therapy should not exceed 1.5 months. In case of an overdose, the patient may develop weakness, lethargy, tremors of the limbs, nausea, and dizziness. Intoxication with Persen has not previously been recorded.

Neuroplant

This natural remedy with a minimum number of contraindications, it helps improve mood and increase performance. Neuroplant is available without a doctor's prescription. The drug contains ascorbic acid, St. John's wort extract. Taking Neuroplant helps improve psycho-emotional state and the patient's mood, provides an antidepressant effect. It is recommended to take pills for depression, pain of unknown origin, anxiety, and psychovegetative disorders. Price – from 340 rubles.

Before you start taking Neuroplant, it is important to familiarize yourself with the contraindications. These include the following:

• taking HIV protease inhibitors (Ciclosporin or Indinavir);
• increased photosensitivity;
• age under 12 years.

Tablets are taken 1 pc. 2–3 times a day, depending on the patient’s condition. The course of therapy is not limited in time due to the comparative safety of the drug. While taking Neuroplant, the following side symptoms are possible:

• photosensitivity;
• skin itching;
• dyspeptic disorders;
• increased body fatigue;
• psycho-emotional stress.

When considering cheap antidepressants without prescriptions, it is worth noting this remedy. Leuzea extract has a general tonic, adaptogenic, stimulating, strengthening effect on the body, improves mood, and increases performance. The medicine is available in the form of tincture and dragee. An antidepressant is produced using a dry extract of the rhizomes of safflower leuzea. The cost of the drug is from 90 rubles.

Before you start taking tinctures or tablets, you should familiarize yourself with the indications. Leuzea extract is effective for the following conditions:

• asthenia;
• overwork (intellectual or physical);
• decreased performance;
• premenstrual syndrome;
• vegetative-vascular disorders;
• period of convalescence (recovery of the body after serious illness).

Although the drug has natural composition and is dispensed from pharmacies without a prescription from a doctor, it has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and has a large number of contraindications. These include the following:

• pregnancy;
• lactation period;
• chronic pathologies of the liver or kidneys;
• arterial hypertension;
• sleep problems;
• arrhythmia;
• acute infectious diseases;
• increased nervousness;
• epilepsy;
• alcoholism;
• hypersensitivity to components;
• age under 12 years.

It is important to note that the maral root contained in this antidepressant often provokes the development of side symptoms. The following side effects may occur while taking Leuzea Extract:

• increased blood pressure (blood pressure);
• dyspeptic disorders;
• insomnia;
• headache;
• increased irritability.

Instructions for using the medicine depend on the chosen form:

• Liquid extract in alcohol is taken 20-30 drops 2-3 times every day. You can dilute the medicine with water. The course of therapy is no more than 1–1.5 months.
• Tablets or dragees are taken with food, 2-3 pieces up to 2 times daily. The course of treatment is no longer than 1 month.
• Drink 100 ml of homemade tincture before meals in the morning and at lunch. To prepare it, brew 1 gram of dry roots with 1 cup of boiling water, boil in a water bath for 15 minutes, and cool. The course of therapy is 2–3 weeks.

Synthetic antidepressants without a prescription

In addition to natural drugs, you can buy synthetic tranquilizers at the pharmacy without a prescription from a doctor. They also have a gentle effect on the patient’s body, but contain active chemical substances. Light tranquilizers can be used to correct minor nervous disorders. Before starting to use antidepressants, you should study the instructions for use, contraindications and composition of the drug.

Glycine

Among the inexpensive and effective antidepressants without a prescription, these tablets are the most famous. Glycine is especially popular among students and schoolchildren during exam periods. Packaging price: 17–40 rubles. The product is made on the basis of a non-essential amino acid, which activates metabolic processes in the body. Glycine helps cope with aggressiveness, increased nervousness, and psycho-emotional stress. The drug activates brain activity and reduces the severity of autonomic disorders.

The antidepressant has virtually no contraindications, except for hypersensitivity to the components. During pregnancy and lactation, women can take Glycine only after consulting a doctor. Among the side symptoms, only allergic reactions are indicated in the annotation. The dosage and method of using the tablets are selected individually. For sleep disturbances, take 1 tablet at night. To improve performance, in case of damage to the central nervous system (central nervous system) and psycho-emotional stress, drink 1 piece. 2–3 times daily. The course of therapy is 2–4 weeks.

Afobazole

This antidepressant is characterized by low toxicity and mild action. Afobozol is available from pharmacies without a prescription. It is a selective non-benzodiazepine tranquilizer (anxiolytic). The antidepressant does not affect benzodiazepine receptors, but acts on sigma-1 receptors in the brain. Taking the drug helps improve memory, control emotions, fine motor skills, and sensory perception. The drug demonstrates effectiveness in a wide variety of pathological conditions. Afobazol is available in tablets. Package price: 375–450 rubles.

Before you start taking an antidepressant, you should familiarize yourself with the indications. Afobazole is effective for the following disorders:

• anxiety states;
• asthenic neuroses;
• premenstrual syndrome in women;
• VSD (vegetative-vascular dystonia);
• NCD (neurocircular dystonia);
• sleep disorders;
• withdrawal syndrome in the treatment of tobacco addiction;
• neurasthenia;
• alcohol withdrawal (alcohol withdrawal syndrome).

The product is relatively safe and is available from pharmacies without a prescription, but has many contraindications. These include:

• allergy to components;
• age under 18 years;
• galactosemia (galactose intolerance);
• pregnancy;
• breastfeeding period;
• intolerance to monosaccharides;
• lactase deficiency.

While taking an antidepressant, patients may develop side symptoms. Afobazole often provokes following states:

• itching of the skin;
• hives;
• sore throat;
• rhinitis;
• headache;
• sneezing;
• nausea;
• vomiting;
• dermatitis.

According to the instructions, the antidepressant is taken after meals. A single dose of the drug is 10 mg, a daily dose is 30 mg. Drink Afobazol 1 tablet up to 3 times daily. The course of therapy is 2–4 weeks. The effect of the antidepressant is observed after 20 days of use. Individually daily dosage and the duration of taking the tablets may increase. Treatment with Afobazole is recommended to be coordinated with a specialist.

Tenoten

This drug belongs to the group of nootropics. Tenoten is a homeopathic remedy in the form of lozenges with a pronounced antidepressant effect. The drug contains affinity-purified antibodies to the brain-specific protein S-100. Tenoten has anti-anxiety, neuroprotective, sedative and antihypoxic effects. The tablets help cope with psycho-emotional overloads and support the body in cases of cerebral circulation disorders and intoxication.

Indications for the use of an antidepressant are nervous disorders, increased irritability, and autonomic disorders. Tenoten is available from pharmacies without a prescription and has virtually no contraindications or side effects. This remedy can be used to treat nervous disorders in children, nursing mothers and pregnant women. The cost of the drug is from 200 rubles per package.

The drug is taken orally, regardless of the period of food intake. The Tenoten treatment regimen for depression is as follows:

• 1–2 pills at a time;
• no more than 4 doses per day;
• The course of therapy is calculated individually from 1 to 3 months.

Fenotropil

One more good antidepressant Without a prescription, this remedy belongs to the group of nootropics. Phenotropil helps improve mood, increase the body's resistance, regulate the processes of inhibition and excitation in the cerebral cortex, activate mental activity, and increase tissue resistance to hypoxia. Phenotropil has no contraindications (except for hypersensitivity to the components). The cost of this product starts from 500 rubles per package.

The medicine should be taken for disorders of the nervous system. Indications are depressive disorders, which are accompanied by the following symptoms:

• apathy;
• sleep problems;
• lethargy;
• violation metabolic processes;
• problems with cerebral circulation.

Phenotropil is taken orally with a large volume. clean water. It is recommended to take the medicine in the morning. The maximum daily dose of an antidepressant is 750 mg. An adult patient can take 100–300 mg at one time. The course of treatment for depressive conditions is up to three months. In some cases, you can extend the time of use of capsules by 30 days. In order to improve performance, Phenotropil is taken 100–200 ml in the morning. The course of therapy in this case is 15 days.

Neurofulol

Another remedy for depression, which can be bought without a prescription from a doctor, is widely used for neurotic and mental disorders. Neurofulol contains the following substances:

• amino acids (methionine and tryptophan);
• magnesium;
• B vitamins.

An antidepressant helps support the functioning of the nervous system. Indications for use of the medicine are as follows:

• chronic fatigue;
• panic attacks;
• phobias;
• neurotic disorders;
• depressive states;
• digestive disorders caused by stress;
• anxiety states;
• sleep problems.

Taking Neurofulol helps to increase performance, improve the mental endurance of the body, the general well-being of the patient and normalize the activity of the central nervous system. The drug has almost no contraindications, except for hypersensitivity to the components. No side symptoms are observed during therapy with this antidepressant, so it is sold without a prescription. The price of the drug starts from 800 rubles per package.

It is recommended to drink Neurofulol 1 pill 3 times a day after meals. The interval between doses of the medicine should not exceed 8 hours. The course of therapy is 3 weeks. Depending on the specific case, the dosage and duration of treatment can be adjusted by a specialist. If there is no effect or side symptoms develop, you should consult a doctor for advice.

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