Depression is usually treated by psychotherapy or psychological counseling and medications, or a combination of the two, according to Mayo Clinic. While a primary care physician may be able to prescribe depression-fighting medications to relieve the symptoms of depression, physicians may also suggest counseling by a mental health professional to go along with drug therapy.Continue Reading
There are a range of different medications that can be used to battle depression, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. SSRIs are generally the first options among all medications prescribed for depression, due to the fact that they cause fewer side effects than other options. Some SSRIs that might be prescribed for depression include Lexapro, Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac and Celexa, according to Mayo Clinic. Similarly, when sexual side effects are a concern, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIS, such as Wellbutrin, are often the recommendation of many physicians.
Some of the most effective medications for treating depression are monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. These medications are prescribed with caution due to the number of serious side effects and serious interactions that are associated with their use. There are potentially fatal interactions with foods like pickles, cheese and wines that exist, so those people who are prescribed these medications should always be aware of the risks involved in taking them.Learn more about Mental Health