Misc. Antidepressants

Question 1

Nefazodone (Serzone)

Answer 1

Mechanism of Action: Serotonin-2 antagonist and serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Side effects: sedation, hepatotoxicity

Half life: 2-4hr

Comments: decreased sexual dysfunction

Question 2

Trazodone (Desyrel)

Answer 2

Mechanism of Action: Serotonin-2 antagonist and serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Side effects: priapism: prolonged erection may lead to impotence; orthostatic hypotension, sedation

Half life: 10-15hr

Comments: can be used in lower doses to manage sleep problems; should be avoided with MAOIs

Question 3

Mirtazapine (Remeron)

Answer 3

Mechanism of Action: noradrenergic and specific serotonin antagonist

Side effects: weight gain, sedation

Half life: 20-40hr

Comments: no interference with sexual function; no nausea or diarrhea

Question 4

Buproprion (Wellbutrin)

Answer 4

Mechanism of Action: norepinephrine reuptake and dopamine inhibitor reuptake inhibitor

Side effects: gastrointestinal; nausea, anorexia, risk of seizures at higher doses, less sexual dysfunction

Half life: 14hr

Comments: used for smoking cessation, contraindicated in patients with eating disorder or seizure disorder