Reply to one classmate’s initial discussion.
Student’s Name: Yessenia Martinez
Course 552
Wilkes University
Antidepressant Medications
There are five major antidepressant classes and several other less widely used classes:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Many antidepressants function by blocking the body’s reabsorption of spent neurotransmitters. Substances known as reuptake inhibitors prevent the brain from absorbing certain neurotransmitters, increasing the concentration of these chemicals in the brain where they can do their work (Patel et al., 2021). The antidepressants Celexa, Luvox, and Prozac are just a few. Compared to older antidepressants, SSRIs typically have fewer severe side effects; however, they are still associated with gastrointestinal distress, sleeplessness, and nervousness.
In addition to treating depression, SSRIs are sometimes used to treat OCD, GAD, feeding disorders, and anxiety related to first sexual experiences (Patel et al., 2021).
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
This class of antidepressant inhibitors (SNRIs) does not allow the reuptake of both neurotransmitters (Patel et al., 2021). Those with psychomotor impairments or who are serotonergic may benefit significantly from increasing their norepinephrine levels (slowing physical movement and thought). Dry mouth, diarrhea, drowsiness, and vomiting are common adverse reactions to SNRIs.
Chronic pain significantly contributes to the onset of depression, and SNRIs like Cymbalta can help alleviate it. Fibromyalgia-related nerve pain, social anxiety disorder (SAD), and agoraphobia have also responded positively to these treatments (Patel et al., 2021).
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Their three interconnected atomic rings make up their chemical structure, hence the name. TCAs can be used to restore inhibitory neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, like how they prevent dopamine uptake into nerve cells (which aids control of the action of skeletal muscles).
TCAs include widely used drugs like Pamelor and Elavil. Among the complaints are bloating, constipation, dry mouth, impaired vision, weariness, dizziness, and extra weight. Rarely, individuals may also suffer from seizures, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats. Tricyclic antidepressants have been demonstrated to help treat depression and chronic pain (Union Media, n.d).
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
This class of antidepressants was created in the 1950s and inhibits monoamine oxidase. More neurotransmitters can be used to regulate emotional states by lessening this effect. Just two examples are Emsam and Nardil. Tyramine-rich foods should be avoided while taking MAOIs due to the possibly fatal adverse effects. Tyramine levels can rise due to improper MAOI use, considerably raising blood pressure (Union Media, n.d). It is typical for persons taking MAOI to have dietary limitations, so that doesn’t happen. Insomnia, vertigo, tiredness, restlessness, and the inability to fall or stay asleep are some detrimental effects. Despite its potential side effects, MAOIs have successfully treated various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders like agoraphobia and social phobia, as well as eating disorders, PTSD, and even bipolar depression (Union Media, n.d). As a result, it is normally reserved for cases where other antidepressants have proven ineffective.
More recent antidepressants do not easily fit into the types mentioned above. It has been found that atypical antidepressants have a distinct effect on serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels, in contrast to standard antidepressants. Example: Syntax with Oleptro (Union Media, n.d). Some potential unwanted effects of the medicine include dizziness, drowsiness, sleeplessness, nausea, diarrhea, blurred vision and weight gain (Union Media, n.d).
References
Patel, R. B., Rao, H. R., Thakkar, D. V., & Patel, M. R. (2021). Comprehending the potential of metallic, lipid, and polymer-based nanocarriers for treatment and management of depression.
Neurochemistry International, 105259. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197018621003053
Union Media LLC. (n.d.). Types of antidepressants and their side effects. Union Test Prep. https://uniontestprep.com/ptcb-exam/blog/types-of-antidepressants-and-their-side-effects
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