Depression Medication

Question 1

General Antidepressant Medication Education

Answer 1

• May not see symptom improvement until 4-6 weeks.
• Physiological symptoms improve before psychological symptoms
• increased energy danger of SI
• Look for improved sleep; less daytime fatigue and crying; & increased frustration tolerance.
• Side effects may occur but handled by adjusting dosage or switching to different med in same class.
• Discontinuing meds as soon as you feel better may result in relapse. Meds usually needed for 6-9 months past symptom relief- up to 12 -24 months.
• Antidepressants are not addictive.
• Abrupt stopping of meds will result in withdrawal- nausea, anxiety, insomnia, flu-like symptoms
• Do not drink alcohol

Question 2

Selective Serotonin Reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Answer 2

First-line therapy
Rare risk of serotonin syndrome

Question 3

Serotonin Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors

Answer 3

may be tolerated better

Question 4

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Answer 4

Anticholinergic adverse reactions

Question 5

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Answer 5

Effective for unconventional depression
Tyramine restrictions

Question 6

Selective Reuptake Inhibitors (SRIs)