The mildest antidepressant. Interaction with other drugs

05.05.2016 20:10

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 great amount 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 disturbances (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?

Maprotiline (Lyudiomil)

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

Side effects include seizures, 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.

Of 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.

Deprim

Renders 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.

Persen

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

Side effects - allergies, constipation.

Bioavailability - not studied. The composition is semi-natural.

Novo-passit

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. The composition is 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. The composition is natural.

Herbal antidepressants

It is quite possible to buy others natural antidepressants which are sold in pharmacies. Usually these are various herbal infusions or herbal mixtures that need to be brewed and drunk. Side effects include: 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 is qualified specialists, which 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.

Depression is not uncommon for modern man. But with such a diagnosis, few people rush to see a psychotherapist, preferring to take antidepressants sold without a prescription.

Is it possible to treat depression with over-the-counter antidepressants, and how to choose the most effective drug?

When do you need antidepressants without a prescription?

Before choosing an antidepressant, you need to make sure whether you really need to fight your condition by medication or it is enough to eliminate the factors that cause depression. Experts recommend minimizing before using antidepressants. stress loads, reconsider the lifestyle, normalize the rest and work regime.

It should immediately be noted that for people with severe depressive disorders, antidepressants sold in pharmacies without a prescription are not suitable. Anti-depression medications have a lot of side effects, and their use and dosage should be selected by a doctor on a strictly individual basis.

Antidepressants have different compositions and chemical structure and the ways in which they affect the body are very different. After all, depression is different - and the same drug in the same dosage can lead to recovery in some patients, while in others, on the contrary, it can lead to a worsening of the condition. Therefore, using antidepressants without a prescription is very imprudent if the depressive state is already in the nature of a mental illness and not a temporary nervous disorder.

Note! Sedatives, amino acids, metabolic drugs, “weak” tranquilizers and nootropics are usually dispensed without a doctor’s prescription. Strong antidepressants It is impossible to buy at a pharmacy without a prescription.

If a person just needs to reduce his reaction nervous system to nervous stimuli, improve mood, then “light” antidepressants will undoubtedly help improve the quality of life. In addition, such drugs help with following states:

• For pain that is of an uncertain nature;
• For appetite and sleep disorders;
• At frequent attacks groundless anxiety;
• For chronic fatigue;
• In the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction;
• For attention disorders;
• In the treatment of anorexia and bulimia.

Antidepressants without a prescription have a very limited list, but all of them do not have side effects on the body and it is almost impossible to get poisoned by them.

Herbal antidepressants

It is better to start treating mild nervous disorders with medications plant origin– such antidepressants can be easily purchased without a prescription at any pharmacy. Herbal antidepressants also help with anxiety and depressive states that appear during stress and anxiety. We bring to your attention the top list of the best herbal antidepressants, available without a prescription.

List of Russian herbal medicines, mild antidepressants, for the treatment of depression, with the name, description of the action of the drug and dispensing fee average price at the pharmacy:

Note! Doctors say that most people who take antidepressants do not suffer from nervous system problems. Most often, people themselves give themselves a “depression mindset” and then try to recover from the contrived condition.

The following can also help get rid of depression: herbal preparations:

• Infusion of immortelle and– improve sleep, relieve the feeling of overwork;
• – increases stress resistance, is used to treat mild depressive conditions;
• , oregano,– mild antidepressants that have virtually no side effects;
• – has a calming effect on the nervous system.

All of these herbal preparations are used for mild to moderate degrees of depression and have a mild effect; they can be used for sleep disorders, anxiety, and restlessness. An exceptional advantage of herbal antidepressants is that you can buy them cheaper than other drugs of the same effect.

Synthetic antidepressants

Synthetic drugs for the treatment of mild types of depression help relieve nervousness, reduce anxiety and restlessness, and normalize sleep. Such drugs include metabolites, nootropics, and tetracyclics.

Antidepressants of synthetic origin (Russia). Top list of the best synthetic over-the-counter antidepressants:

In neighboring countries there is a list of drugs for depression that have the same effect:

• Ukraine: Mirtazapine (300-500 UAH), Venlaxor (250-480 UAH), Paroxin (200-550 UAH), Fluoxetine (40-50 UAH);
• Belarus: (80-100 Belarusian rubles), Chaga extract (1.24-2.5 Belarusian rubles), Apilak (3-4 Belarusian rubles), (1-2.5 Belarusian rubles) .

Synthetic antidepressant drugs a large number of, but only a few of them are available without a doctor's prescription. On some forums you can find whole list such drugs (for example, Prozac, Sonocaps, Metralindole, etc.), but all of these drugs are quite potent and powerful antidepressants, and you cannot buy them at a pharmacy without a prescription without breaking the law.

How to take antidepressants correctly

Antidepressants that can be purchased without a prescription have a lasting effect when eliminating nervous conditions. But this does not mean that they can be used uncontrollably long time without serious consequences.

Many medicines This series has contraindications and side effects. The most common contraindications to taking antidepressants include:

• Age under 18 years;
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

But every antidepressant also has own contraindications, which should be taken into account when choosing a medicine.

People often mistakenly think of antidepressants as “vitamins” for the brain, which they take to improve their mood and overall well-being, so they can be taken without harming their health. But this is not true - taking antidepressants is limited to a certain period.

Weak antidepressants, available without a prescription, can be taken for 2-3 months, because... Treatment with such drugs is long-term, and the effect of taking it usually occurs after 6-8 weeks from the start of use. You can use drugs from the lists above.

The compatibility of antidepressants with other medications should also be taken into account. Thus, a combination of tranquilizers and antidepressants can lead to increased side effects and a slowdown in metabolism, and antidepressants in combination with sympathomimetics can cause.

Many people do not feel what they think is the desired effect after taking antidepressants without a prescription. Reviews from such patients indicate that the drugs do not help cope with depression and are ineffective. But usually the problem is that a certain medicine is not suitable for this person or is used in the wrong dosage. Therefore, to select the right drug, it is better to seek help from a doctor.

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 most best idea, because the patient cannot take into account all the factors and features pharmacological treatment what self-assignment does 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 absence positive emotions- This character traits 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 excessive 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, a strict rule must be followed - only a doctor can prescribe the drug. The doctor determines the dosage and duration of the course.

The main difference between medications that are freely dispensed in pharmacies is that they are intended for mild degree 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.

Unites them minimal amount 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 herbal-based sedatives.

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 production 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 good sleep, and does not cause daytime sleepiness. 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 calms and restores a stable emotional state, but 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;
• low blood 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 in medical 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 the form of an extract is effective in anxiety disorders, improves emotional state, 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. Considered soft sedative, which is slightly inferior to the pi strength of valerian. Suppresses activation chemical carcinogens, prevents angiogenesis. Hops also prevents the development of tumors.
5. Medicinal essential oil herbaceous lemon balm - 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 preparation 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, a side effect such as muscle weakness may occur. Also reduces exposure hormonal contraception, which must be taken into account when receiving.

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 lasts 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 give 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 at the slightest stressful situations they grab pills without even really understanding whether they can be taken or what will happen after that.

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

Ask an expert a question in the comments

Antidepressants are used in the treatment of depression, a list of which can be seen below. Antidepressants are drugs that selectively affect a person’s depressive state. These drugs and antipsychotics for depression can be used to relieve affective-delusional syndromes in children and adults.

• Moclobemide;
• Bethol;
• Toloxatone;
• Pyrazidol;
• Imipramine;
• Amitriptyline;
• Anafranil;
• Pertofran;
• Trimipramine;
• Azafen;
• Maprotiline;
• Mianserin;
• Fluoxetine;
• Fevarin;
• Citalopram;
• Sertraline;
• Paroxetine;
• Cymbalta.

These are only some of the antidepressants used to combat nervous disorders and depression. All of them are divided into several classifications.

Calming

Anti-depressants are a classification of the most common drugs used to combat depression.

Amitriptyline belongs to the classic type of mild antidepressants with a tricyclic structure. It is distinguished from Imipramine by its rather strong sedative effect. It is used for anxious and agitated types who are able to manifest themselves with “vitality”. This drug is available in the form of tablets and injections.

Another domestic antidepressant is Azafen, or Hypophysin. It is used to combat the symptoms of “minor” depressive disorders of the cyclothymic register. The drug has moderate sedative and thymoanaleptic effects.

Mianserin, or Lerivon, is a drug that has a strong sedative effect when used in small doses. Due to this effect, it can be used to treat cyclothymia in combination with insomnia. It is able to cure depression with major episodes.

Stimulating

Moclobemide, or Aurorix, is a selective MAO inhibitor. The drug has a powerful stimulating effect on people suffering from inhibited types of depression. It is prescribed for somatized types of depression. But the drug is strictly prohibited for use in anxiety depression.

Imipramine, or Melipramine, is the first fully studied tricyclic antidepressant. It is used in cases of high prevalence of melancholy and lethargy, and with suicidal thoughts. The drug is available both in the form of tablets and as intramuscular injections.

Fluoxetine is a drug that has a thymoanaleptic effect. Its second name is Prozac. The drug is effective during the treatment of depression with obsessive-phobic symptoms.

This type of medication is called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The drug is devoid of some effects of clinical tricyclic antidepressants:

• antihistamine;
• adrenolytic;
• cholinolytic.

Pertofran is a more powerful version of Imipramine (desmethylated). It has a brighter activating effect. Used in combination with depersonalization.

Balanced drugs

The second name of Pyrazidol is Pirlindol. The drug is produced in Russia. It is a reversible inhibitor of MAO type A, like Moclobemide. This one is used medicinal product for the prevention and treatment of inhibited depression, as well as depressive disorders with pronounced anxiety manifestations. The advantages of the drug are that it can be taken for glaucoma, prostatitis and heart pathologies.

Another powerful drug created as a result of the synthesis and introduction of a chlorine atom into the imipramine molecule is Anafranil. It is used to treat resistant depression and to relieve the affective phases of severe depression.

Maprotiline, or Ludiomil, is an antidepressant with a tetracyclic structure. It has a fairly powerful thymoanaleptic effect when interacting with anxiolytic and sedative components. It can be used for circular depression in combination with ideas of self-blame. The drug is used for involutional melancholia. Maprotiline is produced in the form of oral medications and injections.

Reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors and selective reuptake inhibitors

Befol is one of the domestic drugs that are prescribed for depressive disorders asthenic and anergic types. It is used to treat the depressive phase of cyclothymia.

Fevarin and Fluoxetine belong to the classification of drugs with thymoanaleptic action. The drugs have a vegetative stabilizing effect.

Citalopram and Tsipramil are other names for thymoanaleptic antidepressants that can be used to treat depression. They belong to the group of sedating serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Afobazole is an over-the-counter antidepressant. It is used to combat somatic diseases with adaptation disorders, anxiety states, neurasthenia and oncological and dermatological diseases.

The drug has a good effect in treating sleep disorders and relieving PMS symptoms. But it is worth considering that it is contraindicated for children and women during pregnancy and lactation.

Tricyclic

Trimipramine, or Gerfonal, is used in the treatment of depression with increased anxiety. This is one of the most powerful drugs similar action. Its psychotropic activity is similar to Amitriptyline. When carrying out treatment, it is worth considering the list of contraindications of this antidepressant:

• dry mouth;
• orthostatic hypotension;
• problems with urination.

New generation antidepressants

Sertraline and Zoloft are names of antidepressants with a strong thymoanaleptic effect with a weak stimulating effect. Moreover, the drugs do not have anticholinergic or cardiotoxic properties.

They achieve maximum effect when fighting somatized people with some manifestations of bulimia.

Paroxetine is a derivative of piperidine. It has a rather complex bicyclic structure. The main properties of Paroxetine are thymoanaleptic and anxiolytic. They appear when there is stimulation.

The drug shows itself well in the fight against endogenous and neurotic depression, their melancholy or inhibited variants.

Venlafaxine is an antidepressant used for depression associated with severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia, etc.

Opipramol is used to treat somatized and alcoholic depression. It is able to prevent vomiting, convulsions and generally stabilize the autonomic nervous system.

Toloxatone, or Humoril, is similar in its effect on the human body to Moclobemide. The drug does not have anticholinergic or cardiotoxic properties. But it copes well with treating depression with pronounced inhibition.

Cymbalta or Duloxetine are used to combat depression with panic attacks.

Side effects

Most antidepressants have sufficient quantity side effects. Their list is quite long:

• hypotension;
• arrhythmia;
• sinus tachycardia;
• violation of intracardiac conduction;
• suppression of bone marrow functions;
• agranulocytosis;
• thrombocytopenia;
• hemolytic anemia;
• dry mucous membranes;
• violation of accommodation;
• intestinal hypotension;
• problems with urination;
• increased appetite;
• increase in body weight.

Such side effects occur quite often due to the use of tricyclic antidepressants. In contrast, antidepressants that are serotonin reuptake inhibitors have less pronounced side effects. But it could be:

• frequent headaches;
• insomnia;
• anxiety states;
• depotentiating effects.

If combination therapy is used for treatment, that is, drugs of both types are used simultaneously, then serotonin syndrome may occur, characterized by an increase in temperature, signs of intoxication of the body, and disturbances in the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.

Any antidepressants for depression should be taken only after complete medical examination and making an accurate and complete diagnosis.

And for children they are prescribed with extreme caution. Be sure to do this under the supervision of a doctor so as not to harm the body.

Depression is hard mental illness which requires compulsory treatment. Do without drug therapy only possible on initial stage pathology. In other cases, the psychotherapist prescribes medications that are dispensed from pharmacies only by prescription. Treatment of depression is long-term – from 3 months. The first improvements will appear no earlier than 2 weeks regular use drugs. Tablets for depression are selected individually, their choice depends on the general clinical picture diseases.

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Antidepressants

The basis of treatment for depression different types constitute antidepressants. These drugs regulate the concentration of neurotransmitters - serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine - and restore the biochemical background in the brain. Antidepressants help improve mood and activate psychomotor skills. Thanks to their use, the feeling goes away constant fatigue, worry, fear, apathy and anxiety. Antidepressants are divided into the following groups:

• Tricyclic.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
• Selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
• Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors.

Treatment with antidepressants is undesirable for heart, kidney and liver diseases. In extreme cases, the doctor selects the safest medications with the minimum number of side effects. At severe depression Adjuvant medications may be needed to enhance the work of antidepressants.

If side effects occur after taking the tablets, you should inform your doctor about this. Stopping antidepressants is strictly prohibited, as this can worsen depression. The duration of the course of treatment is determined by the doctor individually.

Tricyclic




They are the most inexpensive and widespread. These are the first antidepressants that were synthesized in the 50s of the last century. Their action is to capture serotonin and norepinephrine in neurons. They have stimulating and sedative effects. Drugs in this group have a powerful effect and are used for depression different stages.Tricyclic antidepressants include:

• Amitriptyline.
• Azafen.
• Coaxil.
• Imipramine.
• Doxepin.
• Clomipramine.

The disadvantage of these drugs is a large number of side effects. They often cause dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention and tachycardia. In older people, they can cause confusion, visual hallucinations and heightened feeling anxiety. When taken over a long period of time, tricyclic antidepressants reduce libido and may cause cardiotoxicity.



MAOI




They block the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which destroys serotonin and norepinephrine, which leads to an increase in these substances in the blood. The drugs are prescribed for the ineffectiveness of tricyclic antidepressants, atypical depression and dysthymia. The most common medications:

• Melipramine.
• Pyrazidol.
• Bethol.
• Tetrindole.
• Metrolindole.
• Sydnofen.
• Moclobemide.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors begin to act only after a few weeks of use. They can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure, swelling of the limbs, dizziness and weight gain. These drugs are prescribed quite rarely due to the need to comply special diet and avoidance of foods containing tyramine.



SSRIs




Antidepressants modern class, the action of which is based on blocking the reuptake of serotonin. This group of drugs affects exclusively this substance, which makes them less aggressive to to the human body. They have no big amount side effects. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors include:

• Sertraline.
• Fluoxetine.
• Paroxetine.
• Prozac.
• Fluvoxamine.
• Citalopram.

These antidepressants are used for depression accompanied by obsessive thoughts, anxiety and panic conditions. Their use makes a person balanced and adequate. At severe forms depression may be ineffective.

Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors




Drugs latest generation, which act on 3 types of receptors - norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. They are not inferior in effectiveness to tricyclics, but have a minimal number of contraindications and side effects. Drugs in this group include:

• Agomelatine.
• Melitor.
• Velaxin.
• Alventu.

These antidepressants regulate human biological rhythms. With their help, you can normalize sleep and daytime activity within a week. They help with severe depression and a short time remove feelings of anxiety, loss of strength and nervous overstrain.

Tranquilizers




For depression accompanied by anxiety, tearfulness, fear and insomnia, the treatment regimen may include tranquilizers. Therapy with these drugs is carried out only under the supervision of a doctor, as they can cause addiction and drug dependence.

When prescribing tranquilizers, the dose is increased gradually - from minimum to optimal to achieve therapeutic effect. The course of treatment should be short and not exceed 2-3 weeks. The most powerful and effective tranquilizers include:

• Chlordiazepoxide.
• Elenium.
• Diazepam.
• Seduxen.
• Lorazepam.
• Bromazepam.
• Phenazepam.

Taking tranquilizers affects the speed of psychomotor reactions and concentration. TO side effects may include drowsiness, muscle weakness, tremors, constipation, urinary incontinence and decreased libido. It is prohibited to drink alcohol during treatment with these medications.

Neuroleptics




Have a pronounced antipsychotic effect and have a depressing effect on the entire nervous system. Their use is relevant for severe agitation, hallucinations, delirium and apathy. These drugs affect all organs and systems and should be taken only when pronounced changes in human behavior. The list of the best antipsychotics includes:

• Aminazine.
• Tizercin.
• Leponex.
• Truxal.
• Haloperidol.
• Fluanxol.
• Zeldox.

Antipsychotics lead to a decrease in dopamine levels, which can cause muscle stiffness, tremors, and hypersalivation. They can also cause increased sleepiness, decreased concentration and worsening mental abilities. The safest antipsychotics with a mild effect are Rispolept, Clozapine, Olapzapine.

Nootropics




These medical supplies normalize cerebral circulation and improve mental abilities. Unlike other drugs used in the treatment of depression, nootropics are not addictive, do not slow down a person’s activity and do not have any negative influence on the brain.

Their purpose is relevant when the level of vital activity and mental abilities decreases, and the adaptive function of the body is impaired. These drugs help stabilize mood and can be used for nervousness, short temper and impulsivity. Nootropics should be included in the treatment regimen for depression accompanied by mania.

Drugs are prescribed for astheno-depressive conditions and how aid during therapy with antipsychotics to eliminate lethargy and drowsiness. They can be used for preventive purposes healthy people who are often under stress. The cheapest and most common nootropics are:

• Piracetam.
• Nicergoline.
• Nootropil.
• Phenotropil.
• Mildronate.

In most cases, nootropics are well tolerated. Sometimes they can cause headaches, agitation, sweating, dry mouth, tachycardia and euphoria. If side effects or individual intolerance occur, you should stop using the drugs.

Treatment of depression during lactation and pregnancy




During pregnancy, taking pills for depression is especially important. If the expectant mother is depressed, she endangers not only herself, but also the child. A nervous system disorder can cause postpartum depression, this condition requires treatment under the supervision of a qualified specialist.

You need to be especially careful when choosing medications in the first trimester to avoid congenital anomalies fetus Doctors often prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors to expectant mothers, which are the safest for the patient’s body. These include:

• Fluxen.
• Sertraline.
• Paroxetine.

A few weeks before giving birth, it is necessary to stop using antidepressants so that the child does not inherit the addiction. During the entire course of treatment, the patient’s condition should be monitored by a doctor. For early-stage depression, doctors recommend avoiding taking serious prescription drugs. They can be replaced with herbal medicines, which include St. John's wort, motherwort, valerian, thyme.

At breastfeeding(GW) antidepressants and other psychotropic drugs can also have negative impact per child. The list of pills that are allowed during pregnancy includes:

• Valerian preparations.
• Motherwort.
• Notta.
• Glycine.
• Novo-Passit.
• Persen.

If herbal preparations during lactation do not have the desired effect and the nursing mother experiences a severe form of depression, the doctor prescribes antidepressants, and the newborn is transferred to artificial nutrition.During breastfeeding, therapy most often includes the following drugs:

• Zoloft. Most safe antidepressant for mothers during lactation. Has a pronounced therapeutic effect and for short term helps cope with feelings of anxiety and apathy.
• Amitriptyline. The concentration of the drug in milk is low, but the antidepressant itself has a large number of side effects and can cause individual intolerance. It belongs to the very first drugs in the group and is sold only with a doctor’s prescription.
• Fluvoxamine. An effective remedy, but while taking it it is necessary to stop lactation. This medication has not been sufficiently researched.

During pregnancy and pregnancy, taking tranquilizers and antipsychotics is prohibited; the course of treatment with antidepressants should be at least 6 months. The choice of dosage and drug is made by the doctor.

Medicines for children




Mild depression in children is treated with psychotherapy and natural medications. Doctors recommend taking the following safe medications:

• St. John's wort.
• Fish fat.
• Novo-Passit.

For moderate and severe depressive disorders, the psychotherapist prescribes antidepressants. Under the age of 12 years, the safest and most effective drug is Fluoxetine. After 12, the list of medications increases and includes:

• Cipralex.
• Lexapro.
• Escitopralam.
• Tizercin.
• Amitriptyline.

The difficulty in treating childhood depression lies in the fact that in 50% of cases the patient’s body is resistant to antidepressants. This can be noticed already from the second week of using the medication, when the positive effect of therapy is completely absent. In such cases, the doctor replaces the antidepressant. Also, medications in this group have a negative effect on the liver and increase the risk of toxic damage.

During antidepressant therapy, it is necessary to carefully monitor the child and discuss his condition with him. The effect of treatment occurs after 4-7 weeks, and the course lasts from 6 months. You should not stop taking medications on your own - before doing so, you need to consult with a psychotherapist who will help you correctly reduce the dosage and reduce the concentration of antidepressant in the blood to a minimum.

Treatment of depression should be carried out under the supervision of a physician. All psychotropic drugs are prescribed in individual dosages, choose effective scheme impossible on your own.