|
Log in
Donate To Depression Forums
Latest Forum Discussions
on: Friday, 04 July 2008 01:41
on: Friday, 04 July 2008 00:17
on: Thursday, 03 July 2008 22:42
on: Thursday, 03 July 2008 22:20
on: Thursday, 03 July 2008 21:13
Search
Member Testimonials
QUOTE(robinbird @ Jun 15 2007, 03:43 PM) *Hi everyone. I found this forum when I was searching for information about side effects of Lexapro. There is so much useful information here...I'm so glad I found this place. Thanks for such a great forum...I've lurked a few times before joining and everyone seems so helpful and friendly.
(-robinbird)
HOPELINE 1-800-SUICIDE
Depression & Mental Health FAQs
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated 40 million Americans living today will suffer from major depressive illness during their lives. Seasonal affective disorder is major depression that appears in the fall or winter and goes away in spring, thought to be caused by lack of sunlight.
Postpartum depression occurs within four weeks of a women giving childbirth. Most new mothers suffer from some form of the �baby blues.� Postpartum depression, by contrast, is major depression, thought to be triggered by changes in hormonal flows associated with childbirth. Catatonic depression is a rare form of major depression characterized by (at least two): Stupor, excessive motor activity, extreme negativism, peculiarities in voluntary movement, and repetition of other people's words or actions. - mcmanweb.com
Psychotic depression is a rare form of depression characterized by delusions or hallucinations, such as believing you are someone you are not and hearing voices.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 18.8 million American adults, or about 9.5 percent of the US population age 18 and older in a given year, have a depressive disorder. Depression is a chronic illness that exacts a significant toll on
America's health and productivity. It affects more than 21 million
American children and adults annually and is the leading cause of
disability in the United States for individuals ages 15 to 44.
Lost productive time among U.S. workers due to depression is estimated
to be in excess of $31 billion per year. Depression frequently
co-occurs with a variety of medical illnesses such as heart disease,
cancer, and chronic pain and is associated with poorer health status
and prognosis. It is also the principal cause of the 30,000 suicides
in the U.S. each year. In 2004, suicide was the 11 th leading cause of death in the United States, third among individuals 15-24.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is presently on track to becoming the world's second-most disabling disease (after heart disease) by the year 2020. Depression is responsible for some $87 billion a year in lost productivity in the US (a conservative estimate), and according to Bank One, is responsible for most lost work days in its employees after pregnancy and childbirth. Additionally, one million people worldwide die by their own hand, most as a result of a mood disorder. Finally, the linkage between depression and a host of physical illnesses makes it arguably the world's greatest killer.
Research presented at the 56th Annual Conference of the Canadian
Psychiatric Association shows a marked link between bipolar disorder
and migraines. The odds of migraine in persons with bipolar disorder were 40% higher than the general population. Data
obtained from 36,984 people aged 15 and over, who screened positive for
manic or depressive episodes with migraine, were compared against those
who screened positive for mania but who didn�t suffer from migraines. Amongst
males, 14.9% of those with manic episodes were also diagnosed with
migraines compared with 5.8% of the general population. Amongst
females, 34.7% had both migraines and bipolar disorder compared with
14.7% who only had migraines.unquote.gif While the research was
skewed towards persons who were already diagnosed with bipolar
disorders, what does it mean for people who suffer from migraines but
who may have an undiagnosed bipolar disorder?
Migraines and headaches aren�t fully understood but the manifestations are very real and debilitating for their sufferers: Throbbing pain Nausea Heightened sensitivity to light or sound Seeing dots, wavy lines, flashing lights, or blind spots Difficulty with speech, sensation, or movement
An estimated 2.1 million
American adolescents have experienced major depression within the last
year, according to a new comprehensive government study. Researchers
surveyed more than 67,000 young people ages 12 to 17 and found that one
in 12 had suffered from serious depression in the previous year.Nearly
13 percent of girls had struggled with depression, compared to less
than 5 percent of boys. Odds of depression increased with age -- just 4
percent of 12-year-olds experienced depression but that climbed to 11
percent for older teens.
Our DF Members
|
Depression FAQ - Part II - Medical and therapeutic treatments
|
How is depression treated?
Ideally, by a combination of medical treatments, talking therapies, natural treatments, and lifestyle choices. No one treatment, therapy, or lifestyle choice on its own is likely to get the job done. A number of them working as complements to each other ensures your best chance of success. Medical treatments include medications such as antidepressants, ECT or shock therapy, and some experimental techniques. Talking therapies are designed to change erroneous thoughts and behaviors and substitute them with new ones. Complementary treatments include natural substances such as St John's wort, SAM-e and omega-3. Lifestyle choices include good diet, exercise, and sleep, spiritual options, and peer support.
What are antidepressants?
Antidepressants are medications aimed at relieving symptoms of depression. There are three main classes of antidepressants - MAOIs, tricyclics, and SSRIs, plus others that are referred to as having novel actions. Regardless of what class they fall into, all antidepressants work on the principle of enhancing one or more of three neurotransmitters in the brain.
What are neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters are molecules that specialize in delivering packets of information from one neuron to another, across a narrow gap called a synapse to receptors on the receiving cell. After a wave of neurotransmitters are released by the presynaptic neuron and absorbed by postsynaptic neuron, the presynaptic neuron vacuums from the synapse any remaining neurotransmitters in preparation for the next wave of neurotransmitters it will release. Two classes of antidepressants work by blocking this "reuptake" action to keep the neurotransmitters in circulation.
What are MAOIs?
MAOIs - monoamine oxidase inhibitors - are old generation antidepressants, Parnate (tranylcypromine) and Nardil (phenelzine) being the best known. They work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which allows the neurotransmitters to function as usual. Side effects can be very burdensome, which make these drugs a last option. These include an outside risk of hypertension, which necessitates extreme dietary restrictions. Some psychiatrists, however, believe these drugs work particularly well for atypical depression, and should be regarded as a viable treatment option. Somerset Pharmaceuticals is experimenting with Seligeline as a transdermal patch that is not supposed to have the usual MAOI side effects.
What are tricyclics?
Also called TCAs, tricyclics are another old generation drug that work by blocking the reuptake (or absorption by the neuron) of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, Elavil (imipramine) and Pamelor (nortriptyline) the two best known. Like MAOIs, the side effects can be burdensome, but because the drug operates with equal force on two neurotransmitters, some psychiatrists believe they may be more potent than the more popular single-action SSRIs.
What are SSRIs?
SSRIs - selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors - work by blocking absorption of the neurotransmitter serotonin. The SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft sertraline), Paxil paroxetine), Celexa (citalopram), Lexapro (escitalopram), and Luvox (fluvoxamine). Although these drugs have been hyped as breakthroughs for treating depression, they are no more effective than their MAOI and tricyclic predecessors. Their one advantage is their more benign side effects profile. Nevertheless, the side effects can be considerable, including weight gain, dry mouth drowsiness, disturbed REM sleep, and sexual dysfunction.
Is there anything I can do about sexual dysfunction?
Yes, Viagra can help both men and women. Lowering the dose of your antidepressant may help, or switching to Wellbutrin or Remeron, which both perform better in the bedroom, may be an option.
What about dry mouth?
Lots of water and good dental hygiene.
What are novel action antidepressants?
These include Effexor (venlafaxine), Serzone (nefazadone), Remeron, (mirtazapine), Desyrel (trazadone), Wellbutrin (buproprion), and Cymbalta (duloxetine). Cymbalta, the newest, has an action very similar to the tricyclics, operating robustly on norepinephrine and serotonin while the older Effexor and older still Desyrel have a strong serotonin and weak norepinephrine action. The others work on a combination of neurotransmitters through unique mechanisms. The side effects are similar to those of SSRIs, with Remeron and Wellbutrin causing the least sexual dysfunction.
Are there other neurotransmitters being considered?
Yes. In April, 2003, The FDA has approved Merck's substance P/NK1 receptor antagonist, Emend (aprepitant), to treat chemo-induced nausea and vomiting. The drug is currently in phase III trials for treating depression. Substance P belongs to a class of neurotransmitters called neurokinins, made from peptides rather than the amino acids of the neurotransmitters we are more familiar with. When released from the neuron, substance P binds selectively with the neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor - unless Emend is already there. Those who have experienced unsatisfactory results with antidepressants may wish to ask their physician about off-label use, keeping in mind that the drug has yet to prove itself as an antidepressant and that Merck is not advocating such use. Other companies also have substance P drugs in development.
Are any companies thinking outside the neurotransmitter?
Yes, to be more precise, they are thinking inside the neuron. The neurotransmitter operates outside the neuron, which is why medications directed at these targets are limited in effectiveness, with burdensome side effects. Inside the neuron are a host of chemical processes that suggest more inviting and precise targets. At the moment, these drugs are far over the horizon. Closer to fruition is the possibility of a drug that operates on the hormone CRF, which results in the stress hormone cortisol being secreted (which is thought to be complicit in depression). Several companies have a CRF drug in development. And way in the distant future is the possibility of drugs using gene technology.
I have been prescribed an antidepressant. What should I expect?
First, don't expect the drug to work at once. It typically takes at least two weeks for the first benefit to be felt and four to six weeks and even longer for the full clinical effect. On the other hand, you will feel the side effects almost at once. Many of these such as heightened anxiety tend to go away after a week or two. Those first few weeks will test your patience. Your depression is raging at its worst, and your antidepressant appears to be making you worse rather than better. Unless the side effects are unbearably severe, you need to give your antidepressant at least six weeks.
What do you mean unbearably severe?
The warning labels of most new antidepressants advise of the possibility of akathisia, a type of mental agitation that may make one feel is if he or she is crawling out of their skin. This is a rare side effect. Another possibility concerns bipolar patients who have been mistakenly diagnosed with simple depression. What often happens is the antidepressant they are prescribed induces a manic episode. Bipolar patients can be treated with antidepressants, but usually require the addition of moodstabilizing medication. Should you feel hyper or not your usual self, it is advisable to stop taking your medication at once and notify your doctor or psychiatrist.
I gave my antidepressant six weeks and nothing happened. Now what?
It is not uncommon for your first antidepressant to prove to be a dud. We are all unique, and no two depressions are alike, so a medication that worked for others may not work for you. Studies indicate that there is but a fifty-fifty chance of patients showing a response to their initial antidepressant. But studies also show the odds improve when you try a second antidepressant. Various treatment guidelines, including those put out by the American Psychiatric Association, anticipate initial failures, and advise to keep trying. If initial attempts using one class of antidepressants fail, the guidelines advise switching to a different class.
My doctor doubled my dose. Is this normal?
It is common practice to prescribe antidepressants on a low dose for the first week or two, so the body can adjust, and then raise the dose. There is a body of opinion that suggests we should be starting with high doses, but the jury is still out.
My antidepressant improved my symptoms by 50 percent, but this is still no life. Is this all I can expect?
Absolutely not. Unfortunately, clinical trials regard as a success a 50 percent or better improvement, known as a response, which is not the same as the virtual elimination of symptoms, or remission. The APA and other guidelines state that remission is the goal of medications treatment, so you should not have to settle for half-way. Remission is especially important, as those who merely respond are far more likely to relapse into depression. Switching to another antidepressant is an option, as are combination and augmentation strategies.
What are combination and augmentation strategies?
Both are based on the principle of synergy, of two plus two hopefully equaling five. Combination strategy involves combining two antidepressants for maximum effect, especially ones that work on different neurotransmitters. Augmentation involves using a completely different drug, such as lithium or a thyroid drug, to boost the performance of an antidepressant. Unfortunately, not too many studies have been done regarding combinations and augmentation, so our knowledge is limited.
How long should I stay on my antidepressant?
Antidepressant treatment is long term. The APA depression guidelines recommend at least four to five months of antidepressant treatment after remission is achieved. Those who have suffered previous episodes should expect to stay on antidepressants for several years and probably for life. Studies have found that those who remain on their antidepressants are far less likely to relapse. For many people, depression is a chronic condition, for whom going off their antidepressant is as unthinkable as a diabetic going off his insulin. If you do go off your antidepressant, you should be weaned off gradually under a doctor's supervision, as sudden cessation can cause withdrawal symptoms - this is especially true if you are on Paxil or Effexor.
What about pregnancy and breast feeding?
Studies indicate that antidepressants are safe to take during pregnancy with no harm to the fetus, though long-term effects remain unknown. Minute amounts of antidepressants are secreted into breast milk, but not enough, apparently, to harm the baby. Woman are advised to consult their physician.
Can I drink alcohol?
The short answer is antidepressants and alcohol are not a good mix.
I've tried everything, but I'm still not satisfied with my recovery on an antidepressant. What's next?
Antidepressants are imperfect, at best, so it's not surprising that people are dissatisfied with these drugs, especially after the hype surrounding their introduction gave the false impression that a breakthrough treatment had hit the market. For some people, antidepressants may not be an option, especially if the side effects prove too burdensome. Fortunately, there are other treatments and options available. And fortunately still for people who only partially respond to antidepressants, the medication can be combined with other treatments, natural remedies, and lifestyle choices to good effect.
What is cognitive therapy?
Cognitive therapy - also called cognitive behavioral therapy - works to change erroneous thoughts (such as "It's the end of the world.") into more positive ones (such as, "Let's find a solution.") Once one is thinking and behaving in a positive way - such as working toward a solution than bewailing the end of the world - one actually begins feeling better. The therapy typically lasts 10 to 20 sessions, and involves active participation and homework. Various studies have found cognitive therapy to be as effective as antidepressant treatment. One major study found that a type of cognitive therapy combined with an antidepressant produced better results that either therapy or antidepressant treatment alone.
What about other types of talking therapy?
Before you engage in therapy that involves working on painful issues or suppressed memories, it is very important that your depression be stabilized, as otherwise these therapies can cause your condition to deteriorate. Some talking therapists take a dim view of medications, and their opinions on the subject are the last thing you need to be exposed to while you are still recovering and vulnerable. Having said that, if your boss is making you unhappy and your family is causing you stress, simply taking an antidepressant or doing cognitive therapy is not going to change these situations. Talking therapy that can help you resolve these issues may eliminate the true cause of your depression and literally save your life.
What about ECT?
Electro-convulsive therapy, also known as shock treatment, is considered the most successful treatment for depression, but because of risk of short-term memory loss - and in rare cases long-term memory loss - is regarded as a treatment of last resort, except if the patient's depression puts him or her in a life-threatening situation where achieving a quick response is vital. Patients are typically given a course of several or more ECTs spaced over several weeks. Treatment involves being given anesthesia and muscle relaxants. Electrodes are placed to one side or both sides of the skull and a current is switched on.
The treatment is controversial, though much of the opposition comes from groups opposed to all forms of psychiatry. Unfortunately, the psychiatric profession has been less than candid over the memory loss element, and neglects to mention that relapses are common, which necessitates additional periodic "booster" treatments.
Keep in mind that the middle of a raging depression is not the time to be making decisions about ECT. People with their depression in remission should do their research now and make their decision accordingly, while they have their wits about them. You can state your wishes in the form of a psychiatric advance directive, which you can find more about at http://www.bazelon.org/issues/advancedirectives/advdir1.htm
Are there alternatives to ECT?
An experimental technique is rTMS, repetitive transcranial stimulation, which involves passing a magnetic coil over the scalp. Because the current passes through the skull as if it were not there (as opposed to ECT, where the skull deflects and scatters the current), the treatment has the potential to be far more precise, with the possibility of targeting specific parts of the brain. Another possibility is MST, magnetic seizure therapy, which uses rTMS to induce ECT-like seizures.
What about VNS?
VNS, vagus nerve stimulation, is another experimental technique in which a pacemaker-like device is placed in the chest and sends a current up to the vagus nerve in the base of the skull. The procedure is already FDA-approved for treating epilepsy, and FDA approval for treating depression is anticipated pending the conclusion of a major trial.
What about light therapy?
Special portable light boxes are used to treat seasonal affective disorder, and can also be used for simple depression. An outdoor walk on even a cloudy day can act as natural light therapy.
|
|
 |
|
 |
Comments 
|
This Month In Pictures
Members Online
Medical News
Andertoon
A Potpourri of Mental Health Articles
Mental Health Parity News
Suicide Prevention Llifeline
Amazon Books
Our Soldiers & Veterans
edclogo
Depression & Mental Health FAQs 2
What is Clinical Depression? Clinical
depression can affect your body, mood, thoughts, and behavior. It can
change your eating habits, how you feel and think about things, your
ability to work and study, and how you interact with people. Clinical
depression is not a passing mood, a sign of personal weakness or a
condition that can be willed away. Clinically depressed people cannot
"pull themselves together" and get better. Depression can be
successfully treated by a mental health professional or certain health
care providers. With the right treatment, 80 percent of those who seek
help get better. And many people begin to feel better in just a few
weeks.
Depression a Big Factor in Poor Health World Health Organization Finds Depression Often Goes Untreated By Salynn Boyles WebMD Medical News Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD Sept.
6, 2007 -- Depression has a greater impact on overall health than
arthritis, diabetes, angina, and asthma, but it all too often goes
unrecognized and untreated, a report from the World Health Organization
(WHO) suggests. more... Depression a Big Factor in Poor Health
For Additional Information About Depression Write To: The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 8184, MSC 9663 Bethesda, MD 20892-9663
For free brochures on depression and its treatment call: 1-800-421-4211. or visit: http://www.nimh.nih.gov
Link To Us
Please use the image below and the code provided to link back to us 
|
Dialectical Behavior Therapy Workboo...
Living Well with Depression and Bipo...
Depression-Free, Naturally
The Instinct to Heal
The Food-Mood Solution
Why Am I Still Depressed? Recognizin...
