What are antidepressants and how do they affect the psyche? Antidepressants: what are they? Classification, properties and action Which antidepressants are best to take

" For five days we talk about aggression, hatred and melancholy in the city. This material is about how depression and aggression are frequent companions. We found out from a psychologist, psychiatrist and people who took antidepressants how to overcome the disease and become a calm, balanced person.

Ilya Pluzhnikov

Associate Professor, Department of Neuro- and Pathopsychology, Moscow State University

Aggression and depression are, of course, related. In some cases, depression is accompanied by aggression, usually when the patient is a young man 16–20 years old. In adolescent patients, we often observe depression that occurs without depressive symptoms - melancholy, tears, stiffness. Their symptoms are characterized by irritability, anger, grumbling against the background of a gloomy mood. The same depressions are observed in the context of brain diseases - traumatic brain injury, epilepsy and others. Patients are angry, prone to explosiveness and aggressive behavior.

People suffering from depression, even if they don't show aggressive behavior, still show an increase in aggressiveness indicators compared to standard values. We record this when we conduct tests and questionnaires. You understand that moderate aggression is a biological norm. A completely non-aggressive person is non-adaptive and cannot withstand the challenges of the environment.

High levels of aggressiveness often precede the onset of depression. According to psychoanalysis, open manifestation of aggression is tabooed by society and it can transform into a feeling of guilt, into self-aggression. At high intensity depression this can lead to suicidal thoughts.

It is important to understand: depression is a disease; it does not exist on its own and usually manifests itself as part of other diseases. We note that patients with psychopathy and those with organic brain damage are more prone to aggressive manifestations than patients with schizophrenia and people with bipolar disorder. When a person comes to a psychologist for help, it is important to adequately assess his condition. If a person does not believe in psychotherapy, meditation, prayer, fitness, and only takes pharmacology, you can refer him to a psychiatrist who will prescribe mild medications in moderate doses. Mild depression can be cured in this way.

Denis Ivanov

psychiatrist

People go to a psychiatrist of their own free will, when they feel unwell, or by referral from a psychoneurological clinic or hospital. Almost any doctor can refer you to a psychiatrist: a neurologist, a therapist, a cardiologist. Depression is often manifested by a multitude of factors - pain in the heart, sweating, anxiety. If there are obvious irregularities in work internal organs no, the problem can be psychological, it must be solved by a psychotherapist or psychiatrist, he diagnoses and prescribes treatment.

The clinical effect of treatment with antidepressants has been proven for a long time and many times, all articles and programs about the dangers of drugs, about the fact that doctors deliberately put patients on them are unscientific. The choice of antidepressants is extremely large and very wide. There are tricyclics, the classic ones and the most powerful ones, they were invented first. They have the most side effects. There are drugs from the SSRI group, they are milder and have fewer side effects. It must be said that almost any medicine has side effects, which is why it is important to take medications under the supervision of a doctor after a thorough examination.

All antidepressants are factory-made. Drugs are divided into originals - when the pharmaceutical company itself develops the formula and produces the drug - and generics - when the company buys a ready-made formula. Of course, it is better to buy a drug that is produced by the company that invented it and was the first to produce it. This is often more expensive, but more effective. According to current legislation, a doctor does not have the right to write a prescription for a specific drug; the active substance is always indicated in the prescription. But he can give you a list of medications that contain this substance. Finding information about which of these drugs is the original is now not difficult.

Story one

I started taking antidepressants because I felt bad. So bad that standard advice like “pull yourself together” or “do something enjoyable” didn’t help. I broke up with the girl I devoted three years to, ****** [lost] my favorite job, trying to work on my own project, which died in God. I think these were the reasons for my depression. I decided to seek help from medicine.

The psychiatrist prescribed me SSRIs [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors] immediately after MAO [monoamine oxidase] inhibitors, which is generally not recommended according to all guidelines. As a result, I had random emotions, mostly of the negative spectrum. What does it mean? Well, imagine that before coming to the cafeteria for lunch you are nervous as if you were about to take an entrance exam. In addition, for some reason I was stupid and did not take the prescribed tranquilizers, because it seemed to me that I should go through everything myself, and not cheat. And I was afraid of addiction (irrationally I was afraid; during those two weeks of the course, addiction would not have arisen).

During these two weeks, all I could do was come to work, sit stupidly and go home. Average productivity is 10% of my usual. Another thing is that without the drugs I wouldn’t even get to work. What helped me most was the rational self-conviction that the medications were bound to help me and I just had to be patient.

After two and a half weeks it actually became significantly easier. Then I got better with varying degrees of success over the following months. That is, sometimes it became unwell again, but not for long, and it was not so stressful.
The people around did not notice anything. My relatives got acquainted with the basic course of psychiatry, and I got acquainted with the advanced course. Now I can diagnose depression myself and I’m shocked by how many people live with it and don’t know/don’t want treatment.

Story two

For the first time, I was prescribed antidepressants after the muscles on the right side of my face and my left arm failed on the Moscow-Antalya plane. This was preceded by two years of relationship with an asshole who monstrously frayed my nerves and suppressed any will to express my own opinion (well, of course, I myself am to blame for this). The final nail in my coffin was that upon arriving in Antalya, it turned out that my mother’s documents were not in order and we would be deported back to Moscow. Mom immediately hurried to faint and distance herself from solving the problems, so I first filled out all the documents - stating that I had no complaints against anyone and was flying back of my own free will, and then on the plane I simply went limp and floated.

The doctor was surprised to discover that 23-year-old children can have facial paresis from stress, and gave me magic pills that finally relieved me. The face and hand worked, it was calm and good, the bad man was sent away, and life got better.

Then it happened a second time. I had a fever for almost a year, but nothing hurt. I visited all the doctors, everything was normal, and the therapist advised me to look for the cause in stress at work. I really had a new job, related to macroeconomics, which I had not done before, and everything was given to me without the usual ease. In addition, I worked from home, did not communicate with people, this was not very comfortable for me. I was prescribed antidepressants, I took them for several months, but there was no effect. I slept well anyway, I changed jobs, but the fever never went away, but it’s unlikely that the antidepressants are to blame.

Story three

A couple of years ago, I started experiencing some kind of self-sabotage: my motivation and concentration dropped sharply, it became difficult to do intellectual work, I began to get lost and stuck on the simplest tasks, experience constant anxiety, dissatisfaction and the desire to hide from the whole world under the covers. There was a feeling that any movement was like running in water: slow, difficult, and most importantly, useless. At that time I was going through an objectively difficult period in my life, but over time it became clear that this was not ordinary situational melancholy, but some kind of deep internal shift. And trying to pull yourself together/change your surroundings/find new inspiration won't work.

Occasionally there were glimmers of good health or even short periods of causeless euphoria, but this made it even worse - as soon as you started to believe that everything was in order again, soon the darkness thickened again. For some time I was able to hide my condition at work and not lose much in efficiency, but over time the situation began to get out of control. There were flashes of despair - once I even tried to cut my veins. And I went to the clinic - to a psychotherapist and psychiatrist. They gave me " bipolar disorder", and, among other medications, an antidepressant was prescribed. At the same time, I was supposed to go to psychotherapy, but I only completed a few classes.

At first, I felt a certain surge of strength, which can most likely be explained by self-hypnosis - with antidepressants, the cumulative effect and improvements should not appear immediately. This feeling passed quite quickly - and then I did not feel any side effects or noticeable progress. The catch is that it is quite difficult to assess the effect of drugs, because you do not know how much the disease progresses and how everything would have happened without them. Even with the medications, it was excruciatingly difficult for me to do anything constructive, but perhaps without them I would have completely gone into couch mode. In any case, during the year that I took them, at least I wasn’t fired (but I also owe it to the patience of my employers), I didn’t go out of business, and even managed to start a new relationship. Not really relying on medications, I began to improve my health in general: I adjusted my daily routine, started exercising, changed my diet (reduced the amount of fast carbohydrates).

After a year of such a struggle, an interesting thing happened: I suddenly (literally in a few days) felt better, and I returned to normal. Perhaps the same cumulative effect worked or an unexpected remission occurred (this happens with my diagnosis). Or perhaps a healthy lifestyle helped me. Since then, I have lived without antidepressants for over a year and for the most part feel good. There are days when I feel like everything has started again, but so far it turns out to be a false alarm.

Story four

My story is like this. At the age of 19, I experienced severe stress, after which I stopped eating. At all. The body did not accept any food, it was difficult even to pour water into itself. This had nothing to do with anorexia or my appearance. Just a reaction to the situation. And at that moment I was in another country, without my parents, without the right to go home (because of a visa). Two weeks later, when I no longer had the strength to leave the house, I had to solve the problem with the help of a strong drug.

The doctor prescribed me an antipsychotic drug. A very strong thing. I remember I took it, immediately passed out for two hours and woke up with TERRIBLE hunger. I can honestly say that this drug saved me then. I became a very calm and even, as it seemed to me, a happy person. Everything that hurt and tormented seemed to be carefully cut out. I was mainly interested in sleep and food. Such a happy vegetable existence.

It was necessary to come off this drug very carefully. First I had to switch to a lighter one. Then, under the supervision of a psychotherapist, quit the pills completely.

Story five

My path to antidepressants was thorny: a few years ago, my closest person suddenly died, and I realized that I could not cope with grief. I went to psychotherapy (although before that I considered such phenomena to be charlatanism and the lot of narcissistic snobs), and my psychotherapist advised me to also go to a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist diagnosed clinical depression and prescribed powerful antidepressants. I remember that they were expensive and had to be ordered separately from the pharmacy - they waited for several days and, of course, were sold only with a prescription. The psychiatrist said that the course in my case should take at least six months. By the way, you should not drink alcohol while taking antidepressants. We agreed to call each other once a month and discuss my condition.

My condition has changed - I remember that at first after I started taking it, I could sleep for twenty hours straight. After about a month, I noticed that I began to react to everything much more calmly. Then terrible problems with the skin of the face began, which, obviously, were caused precisely by taking antidepressants. After another three months, I suddenly began to realize that I didn’t feel like myself - instead of joy or sadness, I felt a pitiful semblance of them. I had the emotional range of a toothpick.

I thought a little more and realized that such a life was not for me, and decided to stop taking pills without consulting a psychiatrist about it. This, of course, is irresponsible, but I imagined that she would begin to dissuade me, and living on antidepressants became completely unbearable. I lasted about five months on them and don’t plan to return to such conditions anymore.

Story six

Five years ago, for the first time, I clearly felt all the syndromes of prolonged melancholy: insomnia, loss of appetite and interest in everything that happens around me. A couple of sessions with a psychotherapist resulted in a prescription for antidepressants. I started taking them, but the only change in my life was the appearance of short bursts Have a good mood and normalization of sleep. With any attempt to reduce the dose, all the original symptoms returned. However, there were no complaints about side effects.

Three months later, I refused the doctor’s services and taking pills and decided to cope on my own. I cut off all ties with fools, forcefully began to walk, go on small trips and practice all the other attributes of a happy life. A couple of months later, time and the policy of forcing happiness did their job - the seemingly endless blues finally came to naught. Since then, the consistent elimination of all external stimuli seems to me much more effective measure than taking special medications.

I am writing this text from three positions. From the position of a therapist who sometimes suggests that clients add medication to therapeutic care. From the position of a person who had both experience of overcoming a depressive episode using psychotherapy alone, and experience of taking antidepressants along with therapy. Each time it was my decision. The only experience I don’t have is ultimatum or forced drug treatment. Therefore, the text is exclusively for those who are ready to make their decisions independently and independently bear responsibility for their consequences.

Now essentially

First. Depression is not only when a person is already lying with his nose against the wall, unable to get up, wash, go to work or meet with friends. And not even when the whole meaning of life is lost and there is no joy at all.

Depression - its more common forms - is often mild to moderate in severity. This could be, among other things, everything that we habitually call laziness, procrastination, bad mood, spoiled character, etc. To avoid self-diagnosis, there will be no clear criteria. The diagnosis is made by a doctor . Yes, psychiatrist . And yes, he doesn't bite.

Second. There is no shame in taking antidepressants. Just like Corvalol or, for example, no-shpu or Nurofen, if something hurts. Or just as embarrassing as any other medication. Antidepressants, like intimate hygiene, are everyone’s personal business and you are not obligated to tell your boss, colleagues, friends, or relatives about this. Doctor and psychotherapist. The rest are optional. At your request.

Experiences

Subjectively, a person may be filled with hopelessness and sadness. He cannot see the good in his life. He doesn’t want to and loves to suffer, but he just can’t. Your attempts to show him how beautiful the world is create the feeling that he is not understood and increase suffering.

And this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try - sometimes it works.

A depressed person is irritable and/or moody for no reason (to an outside observer) or for minor reasons. In fact, often very vulnerable and wounded. Not by you. And not now. And it flies to you. Because now/lately the brakes have failed. Often irritation and tears - the only ways relieve a little of the colossal internal tension that such a person experiences. Tension, which quickly accumulates again, because these methods are precisely a release of tension, acting out, but not satisfying an urgent need. The tighter the depression loop, the more difficult it is to recognize this very need. Loved ones and children suffer the most from the mood swings of a depressed person. And, of course, himself. Because an emotional outburst is often followed by guilt or shame for the inadequacy of this outburst. Guilt or shame keeps the inner circle going.

If there is not much guilt and shame, then some time after the outbreak is a time of relief. The love and tenderness that a depressed person feels for someone who has just irritated him is completely sincere. It just became easier and these feelings can calmly flow for some time.

Children of depressed parents mature early, learning to care for their parents during episodes of deterioration. This is neither good nor bad - it is so.

From the inside, the world seems hostile, unwarm and ungiving to a depressed person. Self-hatred and self-blame are off the charts. People around you are seen as cold and rejecting. And, naturally, from there, from the inside, it is quite difficult to imagine turning to such people for help or support.

At the same time, having the greatest need for warming, supportive relationships, a person is extremely sensitive and vulnerable precisely in relationships. Everything hurts him: words, intonations, gestures. It is impossible to please him, and there is no need to, otherwise this is fraught with your tension and desire to break contact, which he, of course, will catch, even if you do not realize this impulse. Out of hunger, he reaches out to people. Out of vulnerability and pain, pushes them away. Such a push-pull.

Things that made him happy just recently cease to please him. If the work was loved and ceases to bring joy, the person becomes even more afraid. Not all is well here either.

Hobbies, sports, loved ones, pets, colors stop making you happy, and the sense of taste of your favorite foods disappears. Often a person begins to overeat or undereat. Smoking or drinking more than usual. Partly, trying to feel at least something, partly, unable to cope with recognizing the simplest bodily needs - hunger, cold, etc.

The difficulty of recognizing basic bodily needs and, therefore, their failure to do so in a timely manner - to eat, drink, sleep, go to the toilet on time - reduces the already small amount of strength in depressed person who spent them on an internal struggle with himself. Depressive conditions can often be accompanied by sleep disorders - insomnia, disturbances in sleep-wake cycles. Naturally, ability to work and energy for life decreases.

The longer a person remains depressed, the greater his real dissatisfaction with life. The fewer people in reality are willing and able to stay close and provide much-needed warmth in this state.

The longer depression lasts, the fewer memories there are of what once was different, memories that you can lean on to help you get out. It seems that “that me” was a completely different person or it was a different time/youth/marriage/health. A critical attitude towards one’s condition is lost precisely as a condition, a period, a problem in which help is needed. And this is replaced by experiencing it as a given, from which there is no way out. Next comes meaninglessness and despair.

How can antidepressants help?

Firstly, they relieve the severity of the condition. There is a little more strength for life and contact, which means there is a greater chance of receiving warmth, support, and more opportunities for psychotherapeutic help.

Secondly, medications gradually level out the emotional background, outbursts of irritation, sudden tears, acute vulnerability, and conditions when one feels hot or cold become much less frequent or go away completely. Removing acute peak emotional reactions allows you to better hear and recognize less vivid feelings, and therefore more accurately identify your needs. Most antidepressants have a calming effect and improve sleep.

A more complex effect of the drugs is to gradually equalize the hormonal balance in the body, which makes the body more stable and depressive episodes more rare.

In parallel with taking medications, therapeutic work is necessary, within which a person finds support, warmth, contact, as well as an analysis of the ways in which he involuntarily tightens his own noose of depression. A better awareness of situations and experiences that a person cannot cope with and that lead to depressive episodes allows each next time to go through this situation a little differently, more successfully, to organize the necessary amount of support inside and outside. Therapeutic, friendly, medicinal and any other that a person needs. This is all the work of psychotherapy. Without this work, the dependence on antidepressants that is so frightening for many may become a reality. Because if they put a cast on you, and after it is removed you persistently go and break the same arm again in the same way and come to the same emergency room again, then yes, you will become dependent on the cast. The more often you repeat this maneuver, the stronger it will be. It's the same with antidepressants.

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 psychological disorders may appear, 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 medications that 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. Also this drug 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 received data, feedback and analysis open information We have compiled the following 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 by a large number of doctors. It should not be used in combination with Thioridazine and MAO inhibitors.
3. Escitalopram. The drug has a high level of 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 pain in the head area, infections respiratory tract, 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 the appearance of 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 is no different from fluoxetine high degree efficiency. 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 best cure for 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 at pharmacies without a doctor’s certificate, but when prescribing potent antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), the doctor writes a prescription.

Paxil

The drug relieves depression different types and degrees of severity, eliminates 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 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 different 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, a 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. Widely used by doctors. Helps relieve panic, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, premenstrual disorders.

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

Bioavailability – 100%. The composition is unnatural.

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.

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. They improve mood, resistance to stress, increase performance, stimulate 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 various names, more often these are trademarks, behind which a common international name one or another antidepressant drug.

The best antidepressants - a list of new generation drugs

Many of the best new generation antidepressants are available without a prescription and mainly contain 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 a psychological club

Review of popular modern antidepressants

Effective modern dual-action antidepressants are free of some of the side effects of previous analogues. Their use gives positive result at 2-3 weeks. Due to various side effects from the group of antidepressants, it is difficult to choose one effective remedy. 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 others mental disorders ah, 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 has made it possible to use it in outpatient clinical practice.

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, if negative effects are detected 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 for dyskinesias of the genitourinary organs, intestines, heart pain, and vegetative-vascular dystonia (VSD). Due to the above effects, antidepressants of the opipramol group are considered “psychosomatic hormonizers.”

Apply to outpatient stage and in hospitals for myocardial infarction, treatment of diseases of internal organs, bronchial asthma, angina pectoris, increased 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. It refers to a psychological state of 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 stands out noticeably, which acts “gently”, but its therapeutic effect is weaker than that of 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 is being actively discussed in the press latest generation"miaser". 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 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 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 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).

To the very popular means this group includes:

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 researches the latest generation of 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, you need to consult a doctor, only he can select the right medications for depression and concomitant 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 you are truly overtaken by a 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 mild ones 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. They cope well with uncontrolled aggression and neuroticism.
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 the 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.

By far the best remedy for depression this moment- these are drugs of the type of selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake blockers of a new generation. They are of the highest quality and universal method cures depression, but is available only by prescription. This type of antidepressant is used for serious disorders, even 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, and 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 to patients plant analogues antidepressants, assuring 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 is no question of full treatment depression with their help. Only St. John's wort and medicines based on it can have a real effect.

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 those described above strong medications, but are radically 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 headache, That 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 largest number consequences of taking. Side effects include dry mucous membranes, difficulty urinating, constipation, changes in heart rate, trembling of 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 is the worst enemy of 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, I want it to unpleasant symptoms were 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 common practice to divide antidepressants into groups based on 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 large quantity 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 a greater risk of 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 in the 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 taking 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 the earlier onset of a sedative or stimulating effect than the direct antidepressant effect. 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 evidence of their lower clinical effectiveness in 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 at all small quantity 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, the 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. These are drowsiness, 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. With 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 hepatic failure, glaucoma, uncontrolled arterial hypertension, up to 18 years old, with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and simultaneous administration 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.

In the West, as you know, antidepressants are quite widespread. After the release of the film of the same name, even such a definition appeared - “the Prozac generation” (this is the name of one of the popular antidepressants - Sputnik).

Belarusians treat these drugs with caution. Sputnik correspondent Valeria Berekchiyan talked with specialists from the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health and found out whether one should be afraid of antidepressants, who should take them and when, and how not to miss it and not induce depression.

Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that depression is the leading cause of disability in the world: according to their estimates, more than 300 million people suffer from it.

Symptoms of depression and why Belarusians (don’t) find it in themselves

Depression is a state of persistently low mood (for at least two weeks), which may be accompanied by apathy, low activity, and an inability to enjoy or be interested in anything. Often, people who experience it find it difficult to concentrate and start a new business; their sleep and appetite are impaired, sexual attraction and self-esteem are reduced, there is a feeling of guilt.

“Self-diagnosis” of depression is not uncommon. According to Irina Khvostova, deputy medical director of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health, there are several reasons.

Firstly, it is really common: the risk of experiencing depression during your lifetime reaches 12% in men and up to 30% in women. Secondly, modern people have access to information on this topic, including professional information.

It also happens the other way around: patients often do not notice their illness; then contacting a doctor should be initiated by people close to them. With mild and moderate severity more often they turn to a psychotherapist, but this practice is not very popular among Belarusians, experts say.

“Sometimes they don’t go to the doctor because of the “masked” course of depression. Typical symptoms may appear slightly or be absent altogether, sometimes the symptoms of a physical illness come to the fore - pain in the heart, a feeling of lack of air, discomfort/pain in the digestive tract or functional disorders intestines. People turn to different specialists and undergo numerous examinations. And only when treatment does not give the desired result, they are referred to a specialist in the field of mental health,” said Lyubov Karnitskaya, deputy director for the medical part of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health.

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In some cases it is required hospital treatment. In the mentioned Republican Scientific and Practical Center, specialized departments have been created for such patients: here various specialists experienced in the field of neurotic disorders work with them, and research is conducted to solve the problem comprehensively.

“There is no need to be afraid of antidepressants, but there is no need to drink without reason”

Antidepressants are taken so that the symptoms of depression subside or disappear altogether, and the patient affected by it again feels a sense of well-being. In other words, their task is to return a person to normal life. According to Irina Khvostova, you definitely shouldn’t be afraid of antidepressants.

“Modern antidepressants are quite safe; they do not cause addiction. But it is necessary to remember that antidepressants are not candy, and they have contraindications and side effects. Only a doctor will be able to correctly correlate the expected benefits of prescribing the drug and possible Negative consequences its reception,” the specialist believes.

But there is no need to accept them for minor reasons: according to Lyubov Karnitskaya, sometimes people get by with psychological help even in cases of severe oppression.

"One of our patients - a young woman - suffered death loved one, and soon - surgery due to suspected malignant tumor; After discharge, due to long rehabilitation, I received a certificate of incapacity for work. Mood and physical activity decreased, thoughts of imminent death appeared, pessimism towards life and people, a depressed state, a desire to hide and not communicate with anyone,” Karnitskaya recalled.

While waiting for the biopsy results, the woman stressed herself out, prepared herself for a worse outcome, felt more and more depressed, and then became withdrawn. In the end, my sister insisted: we need to go to a psychotherapist.

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“A psychocorrectional conversation was conducted, and when the woman received results about the benign quality of the formation and a favorable prognosis, her mental state improved quite quickly and the prescription of an antidepressant was not required,” said the doctor.

Side effects of antidepressants, according to Irina Khvostova, are rare. However, it is worth knowing that among them are restlessness, increased anxiety or, conversely, excessive calmness, sleep disturbance, nausea; and in some cases, weight gain and sexual dysfunction. The idea that antidepressants reduce performance is a myth, she said.

“Apathy and decreased activity are symptoms of depression; a person taking an antidepressant may at some point come to the erroneous conclusion that the decrease in his performance is a consequence of taking an antidepressant,” says the doctor.

Sometimes, in order to return to normal life, the patient only needs to find and eradicate the “source of trouble” - that which provokes negative thoughts and bad mood.

“A young woman complained of low mood for several months, anxiety, uncertainty about the future, lack of pleasure from her favorite job. From a conversation with a specialist, it became known about a chronic psychologically traumatic situation in the family - groundless jealousy of a partner, constant conflicts,” shared Lyubov Karnitskaya.

The patient had to break up with the man. And after a course of psychotherapy, her condition improved even without the prescription of antidepressants.

Who needs to take antidepressants and can you start taking them yourself?

Khvostova categorically does not recommend starting treatment on your own.

“This is not the case when the reason for taking medication can be a positive review from a neighbor or a friend from social networks. To choose the right antidepressant, professional knowledge and experience is needed,” she shared.

In addition, these pills do not work instantly: their effect is noticeable only in the third or fourth week of routine use in the correct dosage, which can also only be selected by a doctor.

Antidepressants are recommended in several cases. When psychotherapy does not help, and the symptoms of depression (for example, disturbances in appetite and sleep) are so severe that they simply do not allow the person to lead normal life activities.

“They are also prescribed if a person has already struggled with such a problem with the help of antidepressants and in cases where there is a high risk of committing suicide,” Khvostova explained.

Another case from practice - a 55-year-old woman experienced her husband’s infidelity. Her mood dropped, the patient stopped taking care of herself, lay in bed and was not at all interested in those around her, and lost her appetite. She lost a lot of weight.

“I began to express thoughts about my unwillingness to live. I categorically refused to consult a doctor (formally agreed to meet with him after much persuasion from the children). The severity of the symptoms of depression and the presence of suicidal thoughts required the prescription of an antidepressant,” said Karnitskaya.

Why is the use of antidepressants so widespread in the West? I have often heard that taking them has almost become the norm even when overworked.

“Most likely, this is a mistaken impression: after all, people can simply mention that they are taking these medications without going into the true reasons for the treatment (most often only the doctor knows the depth of the problem). Do not forget that in Western culture it is customary not to “cry into your vest,” and look successful and prosperous, even when experiencing depression.However, antidepressants around the world are prescribed only if there is a need for this medical indications", said the specialist.

Antidepressants are sold in Belarus only with a doctor's prescription. When used correctly, their effectiveness is undeniable, but their use can cause side effects, and sometimes quite pronounced ones. Therefore, their use is possible in our country only under the supervision of a doctor. But getting to him is not so difficult - just make an appointment with a psychotherapist at your place of residence or contact a psychological help service.

Antidepressants are medications that are active against depressive conditions. Depression is a mental disorder characterized by decreased mood, weakened motor activity, intellectual poverty, erroneous assessment of one’s “I” in the surrounding reality, and somatovegetative disorders.

The most likely cause of depression is the biochemical theory, according to which there is a decrease in the level of neurotransmitters - nutrients in the brain, as well as a decreased sensitivity of receptors to these substances.

All drugs in this group are divided into several classes, but now let’s talk about history.

History of the discovery of antidepressants

Since ancient times, humanity has approached the issue of treating depression with different theories and hypotheses. Ancient Rome was famous for its ancient Greek physician named Soranus of Ephesus, who proposed lithium salts for the treatment of mental disorders, including depression.

As scientific and medical progress progressed, some scientists resorted to a variety of substances that were used against the war against depression - from cannabis, opium and barbiturates to amphetamine. The last of them, however, was used in the treatment of apathetic and lethargic depression, which was accompanied by stupor and refusal to eat.

The first antidepressant was synthesized in the laboratories of the Geigy company in 1948. This drug became. After this, clinical studies were carried out, but they did not release it until 1954, when it was obtained. Since then, many antidepressants have been discovered, the classification of which we will talk about later.

Magic pills - their groups

All antidepressants are divided into 2 large groups:

1. Thymiretics– drugs with a stimulating effect, which are used to treat depressive conditions with signs of depression and depression.
2. Thymoleptics- drugs that have sedative properties. Treatment of depression with predominantly excitatory processes.

Indiscriminate action:

Selective action:

• block serotonin uptake– Flunisan, Sertraline, ;
• block norepinephrine uptake— Maproteline, Reboxetine.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors:

• indiscriminate(inhibit monoamine oxidase A and B) – Transamine;
• electoral(inhibit monoamine oxidase A) – Autorix.

Antidepressants of others pharmacological groups– Coaxil, Mirtazapine.

Mechanism of action of antidepressants

In short, antidepressants can correct some processes occurring in the brain. The human brain is made up of a colossal number nerve cells called neurons. A neuron consists of a body (soma) and processes - axons and dendrites. The neurons communicate with each other through these processes.

It should be clarified that they communicate with each other by a synapse (synaptic cleft), which is located between them. Information from one neuron to another is transmitted using a biochemical substance - a mediator. At the moment, about 30 different mediators are known, but the following triad is associated with depression: serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine. By regulating their concentration, antidepressants correct impaired brain function due to depression.

The mechanism of action differs depending on the group of antidepressants:

1. Neuronal uptake inhibitors(non-selective action) block the reuptake of mediators - serotonin and norepinephrine.
2. Neuronal serotonin uptake inhibitors: Inhibit the process of serotonin uptake, increasing its concentration in the synaptic cleft. Distinctive feature this group is the absence of m-anticholinergic activity. There is only a slight effect on α-adrenergic receptors. For this reason, such antidepressants have virtually no side effects.
3. Neuronal norepinephrine uptake inhibitors: prevent the reuptake of norepinephrine.
4. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that destroys the structure of neurotransmitters, resulting in their inactivation. Monoamine oxidase exists in two forms: MAO-A and MAO-B. MAO-A acts on serotonin and norepinephrine, MAO-B acts on dopamine. MAO inhibitors block the action of this enzyme, thereby increasing the concentration of mediators. The drugs of choice for treating depression are often MAO-A inhibitors.

Modern classification of antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants

There is evidence of the effective use of antidepressants as auxiliary pharmacotherapy for early ejaculation and smoking.

Side effects

Since these antidepressants have a diverse chemical structure and mechanism of action, side effects may vary. But all antidepressants have the following characteristics: general signs when taking them: hallucinations, agitation, insomnia, development of manic syndrome.

Thymoleptics cause psychomotor retardation, drowsiness and lethargy, decreased concentration. Thymiretics can lead to psychoproductive symptoms (psychosis) and increased.

The most common side effects include:

• constipation;
• mydriasis;
• urinary retention;
• intestinal atony;
• violation of the act of swallowing;
• tachycardia;
• impairment of cognitive functions (impaired memory and learning processes).

Elderly patients may experience - disorientation, anxiety, visual hallucinations. In addition, the risk of weight gain, the development of orthostatic hypotension, neurological disorders ( , ).

At long-term use– cardiotoxic effect (cardiac conduction disturbances, arrhythmias, ischemic disorders), decreased libido.

When taking selective inhibitors of neuronal serotonin uptake, the following reactions are possible: gastroenterological - dyspeptic syndrome: abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation, vomiting and nausea. Increased anxiety levels, insomnia, increased fatigue, tremors, impaired libido, loss of motivation and emotional dulling.

Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors cause side effects such as insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, bladder atony, irritability and aggressiveness.

Tranquilizers and antidepressants: what's the difference?

From this we can conclude that tranquilizers and antidepressants have different mechanisms of action and differ significantly from each other. Tranquilizers are unable to treat depressive disorders, therefore their appointment and reception is irrational.

The power of "magic pills"

Depending on the severity of the disease and the effect of use, several groups of drugs can be distinguished.

Strong antidepressants - effectively used in the treatment of severe depression:

1. – has pronounced antidepressant and sedative properties. The onset of the therapeutic effect is observed after 2-3 weeks. Side effects: tachycardia, constipation, difficulty urinating and dry mouth.
2. Maprotiline,– similar to Imipramine.
3. Paroxetine– high antidepressant activity and anxiolytic effect. Taken once a day. The therapeutic effect develops within 1-4 weeks after the start of administration.

Mild antidepressants – prescribed in cases of moderate and mild depression:

1. Doxepin– improves mood, eliminates apathy and depression. Positive effect from therapy is observed after 2-3 weeks of taking the drug.
2. - has antidepressant, sedative and hypnotic properties.
3. Tianeptine– relieves motor retardation, improves mood, increases the overall tone of the body. Leads to the disappearance of somatic complaints caused by anxiety. Due to the presence of a balanced action, it is indicated for anxious and inhibited depression.

Herbal natural antidepressants:

1. St. John's wort– contains hepericin, which has antidepressant properties.
2. Novo-Passit– it contains valerian, hops, St. John's wort, hawthorn, lemon balm. Contributes to the disappearance, and.
3. Persen– also contains a collection of herbs: peppermint, lemon balm, and valerian. Has a sedative effect.
   Hawthorn, rose hips - have sedative properties.

Our TOP 30: the best antidepressants

We analyzed almost all antidepressants that were available for sale at the end of 2016, studied reviews and compiled a list of the 30 best drugs that have virtually no side effects, but at the same time are very effective and perform their tasks well (each to their own):

1. Agomelatine– used for episodes of major depression of various origins. The effect occurs after 2 weeks.
2. – provokes inhibition of serotonin uptake, used for depressive episodes, the effect occurs after 7-14 days.
3. Azafen– used for depressive episodes. The treatment course is at least 1.5 months.
4. Azona– increases the content of serotonin, is part of the group of strong antidepressants.
5. Aleval– prevention and treatment of depressive conditions of various etiologies.
6. Amizol– prescribed for agitation, behavioral disorders, and depressive episodes.
7. – stimulation of catecholaminergic transmission. It has adrenergic blocking and anticholinergic effects. Scope of application: depressive episodes.
8. Asentra– a specific serotonin uptake inhibitor. Indicated for the treatment of depression.
9. Aurorix– MAO-A inhibitor. Used for depression and phobias.
10. Brintellix– antagonist of serotonin receptors 3, 7, 1d, agonist of serotonin receptors 1a, correction of depressive states.
11. Valdoxan– a stimulator of melatonin receptors, to a small extent a blocker of a subgroup of serotonin receptors. Therapy.
12. Velaxin– an antidepressant of another chemical group, enhances neurotransmitter activity.
13. – used for mild depression.
14. Venlaxor– a powerful serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Weak β-blocker. Treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.
15. Heptor– in addition to antidepressant activity, it has antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. Well tolerated.
16. Herbion Hypericum– a herbal-based drug, part of the group of natural antidepressants. Prescribed for mild depression and.
17. Deprex– an antidepressant has an antihistamine effect, used in the treatment.
18. Deprefault– a serotonin uptake inhibitor, has a weak effect on dopamine and norepinephrine. There is no stimulating or sedative effect. The effect develops 2 weeks after administration.
19. – antidepressant and sedative effects occur due to the presence of St. John's wort herb extract. Approved for use in the treatment of children.
20. Doxepin– blocker of H1 serotonin receptors. The action develops 10-14 days after the start of administration. Indications -
21. Miansan– stimulator of adrenergic transmission in the brain. Prescribed for depression of various origins.
22. Miracitol– enhances the effect of serotonin, increases its content in the synapse. In combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, it causes severe side effects.
23. Negrustin– antidepressant plant origin. Effective for mild depressive disorders.
24. Newwelong– serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
25. Prodep– selectively blocks the uptake of serotonin, increasing its concentration. Does not cause a decrease in the activity of β-adrenergic receptors. Effective for depression.
26. Citalon– a high-precision serotonin uptake blocker with minimal effect on the concentration of dopamine and norepinephrine.

There's something for everyone

Antidepressants are most often not cheap, we have compiled a list of the most inexpensive of them in ascending order of price, with the cheapest drugs at the beginning and the more expensive ones at the end:

The truth is always beyond theory

To understand the whole point about modern, even the best, antidepressants, to understand what their benefits and harms are, it is also necessary to study the reviews of people who had to take them. As you can see, there is nothing good in taking them.

I tried to fight depression with antidepressants. I quit because the result was depressing. I looked for a lot of information about them, read many sites. There is contradictory information everywhere, but everywhere I read it, they write that there is nothing good about them. I myself experienced shaking, pain, and dilated pupils. I got scared and decided that I didn’t need them.

Three years ago, depression began, while I was running to clinics to see doctors, it was getting worse. There was no appetite, she lost interest in life, there was no sleep, her memory deteriorated. I visited a psychiatrist, he prescribed Stimulaton for me. I felt the effect after 3 months of taking it, I stopped thinking about the disease. I drank for about 10 months. Helped me.

Karina, 27

It is important to remember that antidepressants are not harmless drugs and you should consult your doctor before using them. He will be able to choose the right drug and its dosage.

You should monitor your mental health very carefully and contact specialized institutions in a timely manner so as not to aggravate the situation, but to get rid of the disease in time.