What are the best antidepressants? Explore the top selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for treating depression and learn how to select the right medication for your individual needs.

Uncovering the Best Antidepressants for Treating Depression

Depression is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and a lack of joy, depression can have a significant impact on an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available, including antidepressant medications, that can help manage the symptoms of depression and support the journey towards recovery.

Understanding the Different Categories of Antidepressants

Antidepressants are categorized based on their mechanism of action and the neurotransmitters they target. The most common classifications are:

• SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): These medications work by regulating the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation.
• SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): These antidepressants target both serotonin and norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter involved in mood and energy levels.
• MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors): These older medications work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: These are an older class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine.
• Atypical Antidepressants: This category includes medications that don’t fit neatly into the other classifications, often working through a combination of mechanisms.

Exploring the Top SSRI Antidepressants for Depression

Among the various antidepressant categories, SSRIs are often considered the first-line treatment for depression due to their generally well-tolerated side effect profile and proven efficacy. Let’s take a closer look at four of the best SSRI medications for treating depression:

Citalopram (Celexa)

Citalopram, sold under the brand name Celexa, is an SSRI antidepressant prescribed for the treatment of depression and major depressive disorder. It works by moderating serotonin levels in the brain, which can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. Patients should always take citalopram as directed and should not stop the medication without consulting their healthcare provider, as sudden discontinuation can lead to unpleasant withdrawal effects.

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Sertraline, known by its brand name Zoloft, is another SSRI antidepressant used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and panic disorder. As with citalopram, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to not abruptly stop taking sertraline, as it may cause serious reactions.

Selecting the Right Antidepressant for Your Needs

Choosing the best antidepressant for your individual needs is a collaborative process between you and your healthcare provider. They will take into account your medical history, current symptoms, any other medications you are taking, and your personal preferences to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. It’s important to be open and honest with your provider about your experiences and any concerns you may have, as this will help them make the best-informed decision.

Navigating the Side Effects of Antidepressants

While antidepressants can be highly effective in managing the symptoms of depression, they may also come with some unwanted side effects. Some common side effects of SSRI antidepressants like citalopram and sertraline include dizziness, drowsiness, increased thirst, decreased appetite, nausea, anxiety, and insomnia. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

Ensuring Safe and Effective Use of Antidepressants

When taking antidepressant medication, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider carefully. This includes taking the medication as prescribed, without interruption, and not stopping the medication abruptly without medical supervision. It’s also important to inform your provider of any other medications or supplements you are taking, as there may be potential interactions that need to be considered.

Complementing Antidepressants with Additional Treatments

While antidepressant medications can be highly effective in managing the symptoms of depression, they are often most successful when combined with other forms of treatment. This may include psychological counseling, such as individual or group therapy, as well as lifestyle modifications like regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management techniques. By taking a comprehensive approach to treatment, individuals with depression can improve their overall well-being and quality of life.

In conclusion, the selection of the best antidepressant for an individual’s needs is a crucial aspect of effectively managing depression. By understanding the different categories of antidepressants, exploring the top SSRI options, and working closely with a healthcare provider, individuals can find the right medication and treatment plan to support their journey towards recovery and improved mental health.

4 of the Best SSRI Medications for Treating Depression

Depression is a condition causing ongoing emotions that can feel overwhelming. People who are depressed feel sad, empty, and without joy. This is different from the everyday ups and downs that everyone feels. Instead, depression is a regular and underlying part of each moment.

For people with this condition, having a treatment plan is crucial to healing. Successful plans typically include a combination of the following:

• Antidepressant medications
• Psychological counseling (individual and group therapy)
• Supplements
• Specific food choices
• Homeopathic options

Knowing the best medicine to include will help the patient manage their symptoms. Then they can move forward into a fulfilled life. Doctors determine the best option on an individual basis.

All medications should be taken as prescribed. Patients should not stop or start a medicine without discussing it with their doctor.

Categories of Antidepressants

Antidepressants are categorized by their effect on specific neurotransmitters. The most common classifications are:

• SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
• SNRIs (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
• MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Atypical antidepressants

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)

SSRI drugs are designed to impact the body’s serotonin level. Serotonin is vital in multiple body functions, including mood and energy level. When serotonin is off balance, it changes how a person manages life’s stresses.

The role of the SSRI drug is to moderate serotonin neurotransmitters. In this way, depression can be managed, and a patient may function fully in their life.

There are many SSRI medications available. Doctors will prescribe the best medicine individually, according to the patient’s needs.

Examples of 4 of the best SSRI medicines for depression are:

1. Citalopram (Celexa)
2. Sertraline (Zoloft)
3. Escitalopram (Lexapro)
4. Paroxetine (Paxil, Paxil CR)

Citalopram (Celexa)

Citalopram is a medication prescribed by doctors. It is also sold under its brand name, Celexa. This medicine is an SSRI antidepressant. It is used as a treatment for depression and major depressive disorder.

Citalopram should always be taken as instructed, without interruption. It may take up to a month to see improvement in symptoms. Sudden stopping of this medicine can result in agitated confusion. Do not stop taking citalopram without consulting a doctor.

Cautions

When using citalopram, the following cautions should be considered:

• Before beginning this medication, doctors should know a complete list of your medications. Also, review your medical history to avoid complications.
• This drug has been linked to severe heart problems. Contact a medical professional immediately if you experience heart palpitations, chest pain, or dizziness.
• Citalopram should not be taken at the same time as an MAOI.
• If you have negative thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate help.
• Do not breastfeed while taking citalopram.
• Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible. However, do not double a dose; skipping one dose is better than taking two at once.

Side Effects

As with any medication, citalopram may have side effects. Be aware of any physical changes that need a doctor’s attention.

Seek immediate help if:

• Allergic reaction – Do not ignore symptoms like hives, blisters, fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the throat or tongue.
• Behavior and mood changes – worsened depression, irritability, restlessness, and more.
• Seek emergency assistance for any thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

Common side effects include:

• Dizzy or drowsy
• Increased thirst
• Decreased appetite or increased nausea
• Anxiety or agitation
• Increased weakness
• Insomnia
• Bloody noses
• Symptoms of a cold (congestion, sneezes)

Other side effects are possible. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list. Also, discuss any symptoms you think may be related to taking citalopram.

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Sertraline is a medicine used by doctors in the treatment of depression. It is also known by its brand name, Zoloft.

An SSRI antidepressant, helps patients manage the condition of depression. It can also treat other illnesses, like:

• MDD (major depressive disorder)
• SAD (social anxiety disorder)
• OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
• PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
• Panic disorder

Patients should always tell their doctor about their medications and supplements. Once taking sertraline, follow instructions carefully. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly, as it may cause serious reactions. Consult a doctor or pharmacist with any questions or concerns.

Cautions

As with any prescription medication, sertraline may cause some unwanted effects. Be aware of the following cautions and seek help if needed:

• Do not take sertraline while also taking MAOIs, pimozide, or methylene blue injections.
• Be vigilant of any thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Seek immediate medical care if having these thoughts.
• Do not give to children under the age of 6.
• Avoid using this medication if you are pregnant – but do not stop taking it without a doctor’s close supervision.
• Ask a doctor if breastfeeding while taking sertraline is a safe option.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. Never take a double dose of sertraline.

Side Effects

While taking this medication, patients may experience varying side effects. Contact a medical professional as needed.

Emergency medical attention may be needed if:

• Allergic reaction (like trouble breathing, swelling, hives)
• Extreme mood or behavior changes (like increased agitation, depression, or anger)
• Seizure
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Changes in vision
• Signs of low sodium
• Manic behavior

Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal problems (like nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion)
• Excess sweating
• Unexplained tremors
• Problems sexually

Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Escitalopram (also known by its brand name, Lexapro) is an antidepressant. It is classified as an SSRI. This medication is used in the treatment of depression and MDD (or major depressive disorder). It is intended for people over the age of 12. It is also used to treat adults’ anxiety.

Patients prescribed escitalopram should give their doctor a complete list of other medications. This includes supplements and over-the-counter medicines. Patients should also share an accurate medical history to get the best care.

A person who takes escitalopram should not stop without first consulting their doctor. Sudden stopping of this medicine can cause serious side effects.

Cautions

When taking escitalopram, be aware of the following cautions. Seek medical care if needed.

• Do not take if also taking citalopram or pimozide.
• Do not take if also taking MAOI drugs.
• If thoughts of self-harm or suicide worsen, get immediate help from a doctor. This is a serious situation and should not be ignored.
• If the patient is pregnant, discuss whether escitalopram is the right medication. This medicine can be detrimental to the fetus.
• Do not breastfeed until you speak with your doctor about possible side effects.

Side Effects

Even when patients take escitalopram correctly, there can be side effects. Be aware of the possible reactions to taking this medicine.

Seek immediate help at an emergency room if you experience the following:

• Allergic reactions (including difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat, or hives)
• Extreme changes in mood and behavior (such as increased hostility or aggression)
• Changes in vision (including blurring and seeing a halo light)
• Discomfort when urinating
• Thoughts racing
• Headache or slurred speech (can be signs of low sodium)

Common side effects of escitalopram can include:

• Pain when urinating
• Feeling dizzy, weak, more tired
• Anxiety and agitation
• Shaky muscles
• Sleeping problems
• Dry mouth or extra thirsty
• Nauseous or constipated
• Bloody noses
• Sexual dysfunction (including change in sex drive)

Paroxetine (Paxil)

Paroxetine is a prescription medication. It is used in the treatment of depression and MDD (or major depressive disorder). Other conditions that can also be treated with this medication are:

• Panic disorder
• OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
• PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
• Anxiety

Paroxetine is classified as an SSRI. As an antidepressant, this drug helps balance brain chemicals. In this way, conditions like depression can be managed.

Patients should inform their doctor of a complete list of their medicines. This, along with an accurate medical history, helps the doctor treat the condition.

Cautions

Before taking paroxetine, patients should discuss any relevant warnings about this drug. Any changes in symptoms or behavior should be reported to a medical professional.

Some cautions to be aware of include:

• Do not suddenly stop taking this medication. Once prescribed, it is crucial to take it as instructed. Stopping suddenly can cause complications.
• Do not take if also taking thioridazine, pimozide, or MAOIs.
• Seek medical help if experiencing a change in mood or behavior.
• Seek emergency help if you are having hallucinations, dizziness, violent vomiting, or seizures.
• If the patient has feelings of suicide or self-harm, get immediate medical help. This is a serious situation and should not be ignored.
• Pregnant patients should discuss with their doctor whether paroxetine is the best option. Fetuses may experience serious complications, such as lung deficiencies.
• Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
• Do not take this medication if you are under the age of 18.
• If possible, do not miss any doses. Take a missed dose as soon as possible, but do not double up on doses.

Common side effects of paroxetine can include the following:

• Changes in eyesight
• Increasingly weaker, dizzier, or tired
• Increased anxiousness
• Sweatier or shakier than normal
• Trouble sleeping (having insomnia)
• Sudden infections
• Stomach problems (decreased appetite, increased nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation)
• Dry mouth
• Unexplained infection
• Unusual headaches
• Sexual dysfunctions (including lowered sex drive)

These are just some of the side effects that can happen. Contact your doctor or medical professional for additional information. Be aware of symptoms to watch for when taking this medicine.

Suicidal Thoughts: What to Do

Depression can often lead people to consider hurting themselves. It can even lead them to believe suicide is their only escape from the pain they feel.

Some of the signs to watch for (in yourself and others) include:

• Discussing a desire to die or kill themselves
• Actively looking for ways to act on their thoughts (like purchasing a weapon)
• Saying they feel hopeless and don’t see a reason to stay alive
• Talk a lot about the pain they are in, that they feel like they can’t escape
• State they feel like a burden to other people
• Use drugs or alcohol more than ever
• Behave out of character (more anxious and agitated)
• Excessive sleeping habits (sleep more or less than usual)
• Become isolated and withdrawn from society
• Obsess over wanting revenge or having extreme anger
• Wide mood swings that seem uncontrollable

If you or someone you know is experiencing these feelings, help is available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a nationwide support system. It is free and available 24 hours a day throughout the United States.

Don’t hesitate to seek help for yourself and for those you care about.

We Can Help With Your Treatment Plan

Overcoming depression may seem overwhelming to those with the condition. However, there is hope for a fulfilled life with a treatment plan made just for you.

Are you experiencing the symptoms of depression and don’t know what to do? Modern Recovery Services is here to help.

We are a behavioral health and accountability treatment program. We provide support in the form of a professional team and a caring environment.

We believe in treating the patient as a unique individual. Our program has a variety of options available to meet your needs. This means the plan we create to manage depression will also be unique.

Contact us today! Let’s work together to see how psychotherapy and medication can help you have the life you deserve.

Sources:

1. Medical News Today. What is Depression: Definition. August 4, 2022. Available at: medicalnewstoday.com.
2. eMedicineHealth. What are the Top 10 Antidepressant Drugs? May 24, 2022. Available at: emedicinehealth.com.
3. eMedicineHealth. SSRI Drugs and Depression. October 2022. Available at: emedicinehealth.com.
4. Drugs.com. Citalopram. December 3, 2021. Available at: drugs.com.
5. Drugs.com. Sertraline. May 23, 2022. Available at: drugs.com.
6. Drugs.com. Escitalopram. December 1, 2021. Available at: drugs.com.
7. Drugs.com. Paroxetine. December 1, 2021. Available at: drugs.com.
8. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Help Someone Else. 2022. Available at: 988lifeline.org.
9. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. About. 2022. Available at: 988lifeline.org.

Antidepressants – Tests & treatments

There are several important things to consider when taking antidepressants. You should discuss these with your GP or mental health professional.

Medications

Antidepressants can react unpredictably with other medications, including over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication. This will let you know if there are any medications you should avoid.

If in doubt, your pharmacist or GP should be able to advise you.

Pregnancy

As a precaution, antidepressants aren’t usually recommended for pregnant women, especially during the early stages of a pregnancy. However, exceptions can be made if the risks posed by depression (or other mental health conditions) outweigh any potential risks of treatment.

Potential complications that have been linked to using antidepressants during pregnancy include:

• loss of the pregnancy
• birth defects affecting the baby’s heart (congenital heart disease)
• pulmonary hypertension, a rare condition in newborns where the blood pressure inside the lungs is abnormally high, causing breathing difficulties

If you’re pregnant and depressed, you should discuss the pros and cons of antidepressants with the doctor in charge of your care.

Breastfeeding

As a precaution, using antidepressants while breastfeeding isn’t usually recommended.

However, there are circumstances when both the benefits of treatment for depression (or other mental health conditions) and the benefits of breastfeeding your baby outweigh the potential risks.

If you’re treated with antidepressants when breastfeeding, paroxetine or sertraline is normally recommended.

Children and young people

The use of antidepressants isn’t usually recommended in children and young people under the age of 18. This is because there’s evidence that, in rare cases, they can trigger thoughts about suicide and acts of self-harm in this age group.

Their use could affect the development of the brain in children and young people.

An exception can usually only be made if the following points are met:

• the person being treated has failed to respond to talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy, and
• the person being treated will continue to receive talking therapies in combination with antidepressants, and
• the treatment is supervised by a psychiatrist (a doctor who specialises in treating mental health conditions)

If an antidepressant is recommended, then fluoxetine is usually the first choice.

Alcohol

You should be wary of drinking alcohol if you’re taking antidepressants. Alcohol itself is a depressant so it may make your symptoms worse.

If you drink alcohol while taking some types of antidepressants, you may become drowsy and dizzy.

Illegal drugs

The use of illegal drugs isn’t recommended if you’re taking antidepressants. This is because they can cause unpredictable and unpleasant effects.

In particular, you should avoid taking:

• cannabis
• amphetamines (speed)
• cocaine
• heroin
• ketamine

Illegal drugs can make symptoms of depression or other mental health conditions worse.

St John’s Wort

St John’s Wort is a popular herbal remedy promoted for the treatment of depression.

While there’s evidence of its effectiveness, many experts advise against its use. This is because the active ingredients varies among individual brands and batches. This can make the effects unpredictable.

Taking St John’s Wort with other medications can also cause serious health problems.

You shouldn’t take St John’s Wort if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Driving

Some antidepressants can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision. These symptoms usually happen when you first start taking antidepressants.

If you do experience these problems, you should avoid driving, using tools or operating machinery.

Other antidepressants

You should never take 2 different types of antidepressants together. This is because taking certain combinations of antidepressants can make you feel very ill. It can also be life-threatening.

If your doctor decides to change your antidepressant, the dose of the first one will usually be gradually reduced before the second is given.

Side effects of antidepressants

Antidepressants can cause side effects at first, but these usually improve with time.

If you experience minor side effects, it’s important to continue treatment. This is because it can take several weeks before you begin to benefit from treatment. With time, you should find that the benefits of treatment outweigh any side effects.

During the first few months of treatment, you’ll usually see your doctor or a specialist nurse every 2 to 4 weeks. This will let them see how well the medication is working.

If you experience any severe side effects, you should let your specialist know.

For more information about your specific medication, see the patient information leaflet. This will be in the box with your medication.

Potential health risks of antidepressants

Your doctor or specialist will explain any potential health risks linked to antidepressants.

Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome isn’t common but it can be serious. It’s a set of side effects linked to SSRIs and SNRIs.

Serotonin syndrome occurs when levels of serotonin become too high. Serotonin is a chemical in your brain. It’s usually triggered when you take an SSRI or SNRI with another medication (or substance) that also raises serotonin levels. This could be another antidepressant or St John’s Wort.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include:

• confusion
• agitation
• muscle twitching
• sweating
• shivering
• diarrhoea

Hyponatraemia

Elderly people who take antidepressants can experience a fall in sodium (salt) levels. This is known as hyponatraemia. This may lead to a build-up of fluid inside the cells of the body which can be dangerous.

SSRIs can block the effects of a hormone that regulates sodium and fluid levels. Elderly people are vulnerable because their fluid levels become more difficult to control.

Mild hyponatraemia can cause symptoms like:

• feeling sick
• headache
• muscle pain
• reduced appetite
• confusion

If you suspect mild hyponatraemia, you should call your GP. You should also stop taking SSRIs for the time being.

Diabetes

Long-term use of SSRIs and TCAs has been linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, it’s not clear if the use of these antidepressants directly causes diabetes.

Suicidal thoughts

In rare cases, some people experience suicidal thoughts and a desire to self-harm when they first take antidepressants. Young people under 25 seem particularly at risk.

Contact your GP or go to hospital immediately if you have thoughts of killing or harming yourself.

It may be useful to tell a relative or close friend if you’ve started taking antidepressants. Ask them to read the leaflet that comes with your medication. Get them to tell you if they think your symptoms are getting worse, or if they’re worried about changes in your behaviour.

KP list of top 10 inexpensive and effective remedies

According to the WHO, 30% of adults suffer from anxiety disorders, and approximately 160 million from depression, and these numbers are growing from year to year ¹ .

Antidepressants are widely used to treat neuropsychiatric disorders, however, they have many contraindications and side effects. Therefore, over-the-counter antidepressants can be used for mild to moderate anxiety and depression ¹ . As a rule, these are preparations with herbal ingredients.

KP’s Top 10 Non-Prescription Antidepressant List

We’ve rounded up a few antidepressants that can help reduce anxiety and irritability, increase stress tolerance, improve memory and focus.

Bifistim Antistress

Our mood and cognitive abilities depend, among other things, on the balance of the intestinal microflora. The fact is that in the course of its life, the beneficial microbiota releases a number of substances that affect the human nervous system.

Bifistim Antistress probiotic contains Lactobacillus plantarum (DR7) complex. These beneficial lactobacilli reduce the production of the “stress hormone” cortisol, which can reduce anxiety and irritability. Also, the probiotic affects the production of serotonin and dopamine – the so-called “hormones of happiness”, which contribute to a good mood, improve mental work and memory. And magnesium and vitamin B6 as part of dietary supplements enhance the anti-stress effect and can have a beneficial effect on the nervous system of the body.

“Bifistim Antistress” is available in the form of capsules that can be taken once a day for a month.

Contraindications: individual sensitivity to components, pregnancy, lactation.

Lactobacilli are able to reduce the production of the “stress hormone” cortisol and affect the production of the “happiness hormones” serotonin and dopamine, magnesium and vitamin B6 help maintain the nervous system.

Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation; cumulative effect.

Bifistim Antistress

Antistress Probiotic

Bifistim Antistress Probiotic helps reduce the effects of stress on the body and support intellectual functions.

Find out the priceStudy the composition of

dietary supplement. NOT A DRUG

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Magne B6

The drug helps to compensate for the lack of magnesium and vitamin B6 and can be useful for increased irritability, sleep disturbances, heart palpitations and gastrointestinal spasms.

The product is available in tablets intended for adults and children from 6 years of age. Pregnant women can take the drug under medical supervision.

Contraindications for use: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, severe renal failure, breastfeeding period, children under 6 years of age ³ .

May help with irritability, anxiety, fatigue caused by magnesium and vitamin B6 deficiency.

You will have to take a large number of tablets daily – 6-8 pieces.

Dormiplant

Sedative with herbal ingredients – extracts of valerian root and lemon balm leaves. The drug has a mild sedative effect, helps with insomnia, increased nervous excitability and irritability. Does not cause addiction and withdrawal syndrome.

It is best to take the drug in the afternoon, as it may cause drowsiness.

It should be noted that Dormiplant has contraindications: low blood pressure, cholelithiasis and other diseases of the biliary tract, hypersensitivity to components, pregnancy and lactation, children under 6 years of age.

Herbal preparation.

Quite a few contraindications; can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions.

Nervochel

Homeopathic medicine to combat neurosis and conditions accompanied by increased irritability, anxiety, nervous irritability, falling asleep and sleep disorders. It helps to stabilize the emotional background in women during menopause.

Presentation – tablets to be dissolved under the tongue.

Contraindications for use: individual intolerance to components, lactose deficiency and intolerance. Use during pregnancy and lactation is possible with the permission of a doctor.

Minimum number of contraindications.

Hard to find commercially.

Glycine

Glycine is an essential amino acid for our body. It regulates the processes of excitation and inhibition in the central nervous system, relieves excessive excitability, irritability and nervousness, increases mental performance, improves memory and attention.

A drug based on it helps to recover faster after strokes and craniocerebral injuries, reduce the toxic effects of alcohol and drugs on the nervous system.

The drug can be taken by adults, children and adolescents, pregnant and lactating women.

Among the contraindications is only individual intolerance to the components.

Minimum contraindications; suitable for pregnant and lactating women; low price in the segment; always available in pharmacies.

Not everyone likes the method of application – resorption of tablets.

Ginkgo Biloba

Herbal preparation for improving cerebral and peripheral blood circulation. Ginkgo Biloba is able to have a beneficial effect on the nervous system: it helps to improve memory and attention, get rid of increased anxiety and feelings of fear. Available in capsules with a dosage of 40 and 80 mg.

Among the contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, age up to 18 years, hypersensitivity to components, erosive gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, acute myocardial infarction, acute disorders of cerebral circulation.

Herbal preparation; a wide range of activities.

Quite a lot of contraindications.

Valerian + Motherwort Forte

BAA contains extracts of valerian and motherwort, which have a calming, hypotensive (lowers blood pressure) and antispasmodic effect.

Indications for use – neurotic disorders, which are accompanied by sleep disorders, heart palpitations, increased irritability, anxiety, instability to stress. BAA can be useful for women during menopause and people with hyperthyroidism (an excess of thyroid hormones in the body).

BAA release form – lozenges.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to components, age under 18, pregnancy, breast-feeding.

Herbal ingredients in the formulation; complex action.

Not suitable for children and adolescents under 18; daily need to take a large number of tablets.

Tenoten

The drug contains a complex of substances that have an antidepressant and calming effect, reduce anxiety, increase resistance to psycho-emotional stress. It can be used for neurosis, stress disorders, increased emotional stress, memory loss.

The drug is available in the form of lozenges.

There are few contraindications for the product: age under 18 years, intolerance to components, deficiency and lactose intolerance. Use during pregnancy and lactation is possible according to the doctor’s prescription.

Complex action; minimum contraindications and side effects.

Not suitable for children and adolescents under 18; you need to take a lot of pills.

Novo-Passit

The preparation contains extracts of several medicinal plants: valerian, lemon balm, St. John’s wort, hawthorn, hops and elderberry. Biologically active substances in the composition have a calming effect. The drug helps to cope with anxiety, fear, constant mental stress, fatigue and absent-mindedness. Against the background of the reception, headaches and skin diseases caused by increased psychological stress may disappear.

The drug is available in the form of tablets and solution.

The product should not be taken by children under 12 years of age, lactating women, people with myasthenia gravis and hypersensitivity to the components. During pregnancy, the drug is prescribed only if absolutely necessary.

Herbal preparation; two dosage forms – tablets and solution.

During the reception it is necessary to limit exposure to the sun, refuse to drive vehicles and complex mechanisms.

Persen

Gentle soothing herbal remedy. It contains extracts of medicinal plants – valerian, lemon balm and mint. The drug is indicated for insomnia, anxiety, irritability and aggressiveness.

It comes in tablets that can be taken by adults and children over 12 years of age.

The drug is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to components, low blood pressure, diseases of the biliary tract, as well as pregnant and lactating women.

Herbal preparation.

Requires a large number of tablets to be taken daily, a course of treatment will require several packs; may cause drowsiness and reduce concentration.

How to choose antidepressants without prescriptions

As psychologist, gestalt therapist Veronika Tyurina explains , it is better to choose even antidepressants without prescriptions together with your doctor. Ideally, you need to rely on the results of the analyzes. For example, B vitamins are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, however, preparations with them may be useless and even harmful if there are enough of these vitamins in the body.

Doctors’ reviews of over-the-counter antidepressants

Many doctors begin their treatment of neuroses and anxiety disorders by prescribing antidepressants without prescriptions. But it is important for patients to remember that taking sedatives will only relieve the symptoms of nervous tension, but will not solve the problems that cause this tension. Therefore, in case of chronic stress, it is worth contacting narrow specialists: a psychologist, a neurologist, a psychiatrist.

Anxiety disorder

How to distinguish the disease from the norm

An anxiety disorder is a persistent and uncontrollable feeling of anxiety that lasts for more than 6 months without any objective reason. Together with experts we will discuss which drugs are prescribed for anxiety disorders

More about the problemLearn about treatment

Popular questions and answers

Stress, anxiety, increased mental and emotional stress are frequent companions of a modern person, so interest in antidepressants is quite justified. The psychologist, Gestalt therapist Veronika Tyurina answers the most popular questions about effective and inexpensive antidepressants without a prescription.

What is a natural antidepressant?

— There are products that have a beneficial effect on the state of the nervous system. These are, first of all, nuts, legumes, cocoa, bananas, broccoli, red fish. Introduce them into your diet, and your psycho-emotional state will noticeably level out.

Many medicinal plants have a calming effect. Pharmacies sell ready-made preparations that help with anxiety disorders and sleep disorders. The composition of the fees usually includes valerian, lemon balm, mint, motherwort, oregano, thyme, hops and St. John’s wort.

How to restore the nervous system without antidepressants?

– You can cope with stress and restore peace of mind if you change your lifestyle. This will help:

• daily walks for 20-30 minutes at a calm pace;
• water treatments, especially magnesium sulfate baths;
• Quiet mode – I suggest spending at least 15-20 minutes in silence every day to meditate or just be alone with yourself. This is great for calming down and finding new solutions to old problems;
• trips to nature – they have a healing effect in themselves and are also useful for changing the situation and switching attention.

Photo: market.yandex.ru, KP

Sources :

1. “Valerian, lemon balm and mint in the treatment of anxiety disorders and sleep disorders: a review of clinical studies. ” S. A. Rachin, A. P. Rachin. Journal “Attending Doctor” 06/07/2016. https://www.lvrach.ru/2016/06/15436497

Horse riding is the best antidepressant

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Horse riding is the best antidepressant

By vovain Archive

527

Do you suffer from bouts of depression? Can’t sleep? Worried about trifles? Get on a horse and ride from all worries towards health and well-being! Research proves that horseback riding is an excellent tool for relieving stress, emotional shake-up and overall health improvement of the body. The storm of positive emotions that you experience when interacting with this warm, big, sensitive and intelligent animal makes even the most unhappy, insecure people feel happy.

Living Trainer

Want to know what else good riding is? In addition to the psychotherapeutic effect, scientists say, horse riding is an excellent means of strengthening the body. This was known even by ancient doctors who advised horseback riding to improve the tone of those recovering from serious illnesses, and Celsius advised them to treat intestinal diseases. Today, doctors know that horseback riding has a very good effect on the respiratory and endocrine systems of a person, improves blood circulation and digestion. It is even recommended for people after heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases, because with general physical activity it does not put a strain on the lungs and heart.

Therapeutic horseback riding is extremely useful for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, scoliosis, and osteochondrosis. Hippotherapy – horseback riding treatment – surprisingly improves the well-being and motor skills in children with cerebral palsy. Due to the high impact load, brisk walking or running is not suitable for people who have joint and spinal problems. Horseback riding is a different matter, it provides a unique opportunity to work out all muscle groups without stressing the joints, so it is recommended for people of all ages – from three years old to infinity.

Horse riding is a great way to train your vestibular apparatus, because you need to get in time with the movement of the horse.