MDD is a type of depression and psychological disorder that influences the way you feel, think, and behave. This is so much more than feeling sad or having a bad day. Depressed individuals mostly experience a series of symptoms that complicate their everyday experiences. The good news is that medications, such as antidepressants, changes in lifestyle, and therapy are some of the ways to treat depression and enhance the quality of life.
This guide will take you through the typical medications used to treat MDD, how they work, and how to start receiving treatment. Whether you have MDD or care for someone with MDD, this guide will help you learn the available options.
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What Is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
Clinical depression, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a serious yet commonly occurring mental disorder. It affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be life-threatening. Symptoms of depression include the following.
- Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite and sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue or low energy
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
These symptoms can interfere with work, school, and relationships. When such feelings persist for more than two weeks and continue to affect day-to-day activities, care should be sought.
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How Medication Helps Treat Depression
Whether you like it or not, medication definitely plays an important part in treating MDD. These drugs create a balance in the brain’s chemicals that influence mood and emotions. They may be applied in conjunction with other treatment options like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT).
Why Choose Medication?
- Helps reduce depressive symptoms
- Supports therapy and lifestyle changes
- May prevent future depressive episodes
To others, medicines can provide relief from serious symptoms that cannot be treated by therapy alone. Medications can also help with dual diagnosis, e.g., if you also have an anxiety disorder.
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FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services HotlineTypes of Medications for Major Depressive Disorder
There are several types of major depressive disorder medications. Your doctor can attempt one or several of these, depending on your symptoms and your health history.
1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
The first type of medication is normally taken for severe depression. SSRIs enhance the brain serotonin levels, which help in the improvement of the mood.
Common SSRIs include
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
Side effects may include
- Nausea
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping
- Sexual problems
2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
The alternative in case SSRIs are ineffective is SNRI. These drugs boost both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.
Examples
- Venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Possible side effects
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Fatigue
- High blood pressure
3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
TCAs are older drugs for MDD. They’re often used when other drugs don’t work.
Examples
- Amitriptyline
- Nortriptyline
The drugs that will have more adverse effects, like weight gain and dizziness, can be used.
4. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
MAOIs are another older type of medication. They may interact with some foods and other drugs, which is why they are not that popular.
Examples:
- Phenelzine (Nardil)
- Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
5. Atypical Antidepressants
These do not fall into the category of other groups but can be helpful.
Examples:
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- Mirtazapine (Remeron)
The reason they are popularly chosen is due to less sexually related side effects or if you have anxiety as well.
6. Combination of Medications
Certain instances also involve the use of combination medications by doctors in cases where a single medication is insufficient. This can be helpful in treatment-resistant depression.
7. Other Treatment Options
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): is applied in severe cases where medicine is not effective.
- Clinical Trials: There are individuals who participate in trials as a way of testing new drugs with regard to MDD.
Finding the Right Medication
It might take some time to find the most appropriate medicine to treat severe depression. Your physician will work with you to determine what is best according to your body and symptoms.
Things to discuss with your doctor:
- Your symptoms
- Other health problems
- Possible side effects
- Family history of mental health conditions
Don’t stop taking medicine suddenly. Always talk to your doctor first.
Dealing With Side Effects
Most of the medicines cause some form of side effects in the initial few weeks. These tend to improve as time goes by. Otherwise, discuss with your physician.
Common side effects:
- Upset stomach
- Weight gain or loss
- Sleep issues
- Feeling restless
Serious side effects occur on rare occasions, but seek help in case you feel worse or want to kill yourself. Certain MDD medicines can cause suicidal thoughts among the youth.
Long-Term Use and Monitoring
Depression is often a long-term condition. There are individuals who can be put on medication for years or months. Others may stop after they feel better.
Regular checkups help your doctor:
- See how the medicine is working
- Adjust the dose
- Watch for any health problems
One should adhere to a course of treatment and use medication as indicated.
Combining Medication With Therapy
To a large majority of people with depression, adding therapy to medicine has a better effect.. The use of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) contributes to altering the negative way of thinking and behavioral patterns.
Therapy can help you:
- Understand your depression
- Develop coping skills
- Improve relationships
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When Medication Doesn’t Work
Not everyone can react to the initial several drugs. This is called treatment-resistant depression. Your doctor might try:
- A different type of medicine
- A higher dose
- Adding a second medication
- ECT or other advanced treatments
Tips for Managing Depression
These tips, besides medication and therapy, can be useful:
- Stay active with exercise
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get regular sleep
- Connect with friends and family
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
Local Help in Spokane Valley, Washington
In case you or a loved one seeks help for depression, We Level Up Washington provides personalized treatment programs. We work with people with MDD and know what it is like to live with the condition. We are here to support and assist you in making the first step toward feeling better.
Other cities in the neighborhood, such as Spokane, Liberty Lake, and Post Falls, can also enjoy the support and the services of our facility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are the best medications for major depressive disorder?
The best medicine depends on your symptoms and health. SSRIs are often the first choice. Other options include SNRIs, atypical antidepressants, and TCAs.
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How long does it take for depression medicine to work?
The average for most drugs is 2-6 weeks before they begin to operate. It may take longer to feel full relief.
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Will I be able to do away with depression medication should I improve?
Never stop on your own. Talk to your doctor before making any changes.
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What if the medicine doesn’t work for me?
There are many drugs for MDD. The doctor may attempt another one or advise on a combination of drugs. Therapy and lifestyle changes also help.
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Is treatment for depression available in Spokane Valley?
Yes. We Level Up Washington in Spokane Valley provides the evidence-based options to treat major depressive disorder through medication and therapy.
Final Thoughts
Major depressive disorder is tough, but it’s treatable. Medicine for severe depression can improve symptoms and mood by using medicines. A person who has depression can live a good life, given the necessary guidance.
Treatment for depression can take time. In other cases, a single drug is not sufficient, or it starts acting immediately. You and your doctor can explore all different medications, including SSRI, SNRI, and MAOIs.
Just keep in mind you are not alone. Millions of individuals are experiencing depressive symptoms every day, and most of them can go on to live contented and happy lives with the right treatment. It begins with taking action, realizing what you’re capable of, and remaining dedicated to your psychological well-being.
With We Level Up Washington, you have someone to help you along the way.
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Hotline: (509) 348-4077End the Emotional Pain Rollercoaster. Gain Stability & Happiness Through Recovery Treatment. Start Mental Health Counseling Today. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Behaviroal Health Specialists Who Understand Mental Health Recovery.
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