Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants considered the current standard of drug treatment. A possible cause of depression is an inadequate amount of serotonin, a chemical used in the brain to transmit signals between neurons. SSRIs are said to work by preventing the reuptake of serotonin (also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine, or 5-HT) by the presynaptic neuron, thus maintaining higher levels of 5-HT in the synapse. Chemists Klaus Schmiegel and Bryan Molloy of Eli Lilly discovered the first SSRI, fluoxetine. This class of drugs includes:
Citalopram (Celexa, Cipramil)
Escitalopram (Lexapro, Cipralex, Seroplex, Lexamil)
Fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, Symbyax)
Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
Paroxetine (Paxil, Aropax)
Sertraline (Zoloft)
Vilazodone (Viibryd)

These antidepressants typically have fewer adverse effects than the tricyclics or the MAOIs, although such effects as drowsiness, dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, decreased appetite, long-term weight gain and decreased ability to function sexually may occur. Some side effects may decrease as a person adjusts to the drug, but other side effects may be persistent.

Work by two researchers has called into question the link between serotonin deficiency and symptoms of depression, noting that the efficacy of SSRIs as treatment does not in itself prove the link. Research indicates that these drugs may interact with transcription factors known as “clock genes”, which may play a role in the addictive properties of drugs (drug abuse), and possibly in obesity.

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials published in the Archives of General Psychiatry showed that up to one-third of the 6-week effect of SSRI Treatment can be seen in the first week. The same study also found that patients treated with SSRIs were 64% more likely to achieve a 50% absolute reduction in HRSD than patients given a placebo.[1]

Citalopram (Celexa): usual dosing is 20 mg initially; maintenance 40 mg per day; maximum dose 60 mg per day.
Escitalopram (Lexapro, Cipralex): usual dosing is 10 mg and shown to be as effective as 20 mg in most cases. Maximum dose 20 mg. Also helps with anxiety.
Paroxetine (Paxil, Seroxat): Also used to treat panic disorder, OCD, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and PTSD. Usual dose 25 mg per day; may be increased to 40 mg per day. Available in controlled release 12.5 to 37.5 mg per day; controlled release dose maximum 50 mg per day. Less cycling in patients who are bipolar.
Fluoxetine (Prozac): Also used to treat OCD, bulimia, and panic disorder. Long half-life; less withdrawal when medication is stopped. Dosing is 20 mg to a maximum of 80 mg.
Fluvoxamine (Luvox): Although primarily used in the treatment of OCD, a doctor may prescribe it for depression. Initial dose is 50 mg, increasing by 50 mg every 4-7 days. If daily dose is greater than 100 mg give in equally divided doses or give larger dose at bedtime not to exceed 300 mg per day.
Sertraline (Zoloft, Lustral): Also used to treat panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, social anxiety disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Dosing is 50-200 mg per day and should be titrated upward.

Be aware of drug interactions. Dextromethorphan (found in many brands of over-the-counter cough syrup) as well as the opioids tramadol (Tramal, Ultram), and pethidine/meperidine are contraindicated with all SSRIs as they are serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) themselves and the combination could cause the potentially fatal serotonin syndrome. Many SSRIs inhibit the metabolism of dextromethorphan as well, further adding to the risk.

Drug interactions may also occur when concurrently taking phenytoin (Dilantin) and warfarin (Coumadin) (phenytoin and warfarin levels are increased).

Always check with pharmacy regarding potential drug interactions.[2]

Source:

[1]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antidepressant

[2]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_antidepressants

Related posts

• The Most Prescribed Psychiatric Drugs (0)
• Discontinuing Antidepressants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Newer Antidepressants (0)
• Sertraline (0)
• Lexapro (0)
• Paxil (0)
• Psychiatric Drugs’ Use Drops for Children (0)
• Antidepressants Hardly Help (0)
• Antidepressants (0)
• Zoloft – sertraline HCl (0)

Sertraline hydrochloride (trade names Zoloft and Lustral) is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It was introduced to the market by Pfizer in 1991. Sertraline is primarily used to treat major depression in adult outpatients as well as obsessive–compulsive, panic, and social anxiety disorders in both adults and children. In 2007, it was the most prescribed antidepressant on the U.S. retail market, with 29,652,000 prescriptions.

The efficacy of sertraline for depression is similar to that of older tricyclic antidepressants, but its side effects are much less pronounced. Differences with newer antidepressants are subtler and also mostly confined to side effects. Evidence suggests that sertraline may work better than fluoxetine (Prozac) for some subtypes of depression. Sertraline is highly effective for the treatment of panic disorder, but cognitive behavioral therapy is a better treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, whether by itself or in combination with sertraline. Although approved for social phobia and posttraumatic stress disorder, sertraline leads to only modest improvement in these conditions. Sertraline also alleviates the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder and can be used in sub-therapeutic doses or intermittently for its treatment.

Sertraline shares the common side effects and contraindications of other SSRIs, with high rates of nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, and sexual side effects; however, its effects on cognition are mild. The unique effect of sertraline on dopaminergic neurotransmission may be related to its favorable action on cognitive functions. In pregnant women taking sertraline, the drug was present in significant concentrations in fetal blood, and was also associated with a higher rate of various birth defects. Similarly to other antidepressants, the use of sertraline for depression may be associated with a higher rate of suicidality. Due to the rarity of this side effect, statistically significant data are difficult to obtain, and suicidality continues to be a subject of controversy.(1)

Definition

Sertraline is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In the in United States it is sold under the brand name Zoloft.

Purpose

Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder , panic disorder , and post-traumatic stress disorder .

Description

Serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters , is a brain chemical that carries nerve impulses from one nerve cell to another. Researchers think that depression and certain other mental disorders may be caused, in part, because there is not enough serotonin being released and transmitted in the brain. Like the other SSRI antidepressants, fluvoxamine (Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline increases the level of brain serotonin (also known as 5-HT). Increased serotonin levels in the brain may be beneficial in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder, alcoholism, certain types of headaches, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), pre-menstrual tension and mood swings, and panic disorder. Sertraline is not more or less effective than the other SSRI drugs although selected characteristics of each drug in this class may offer greater benefits in some patients. Fewer drug interactions have been reported with sertraline, however, than with other medications in the same class.

The benefits of sertraline develop slowly over a period of up to four weeks. Patients should be aware of this and continue to take the drug as directed, even if they feel no immediate improvement.

Sertraline is available in 25-mg, 50-mg and 100-mg tablets, or as a 20-mg per ml solution.

Recommended dosage

The recommended dosage of sertraline depends on the disorder being treated. The initial recommended dosage for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder is 50 mg daily. This may be increased at intervals of at least one week to the maximum recommended dosage of 200 mg daily. For the treatment of panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, the initial dose is 25 mg once daily. This dosage is increased to 50 mg daily after one week. If there is no therapeutic response, the dosage may be increased to the maximum of 200 mg daily at intervals of at least one week. These dosages may need to be reduced in elderly patients (over age 65) or in people with liver disease.

For the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder in the pediatric population, treatment should be initiated at a dose of 25 mg per day in children six to 12 years of age and 50 mg per day in children 13 to 17 years of age. Doses may be increased at one-week intervals to a total daily dose of 200 mg.

Precautions

A group of serious side effects, called serotonin syndrome, have resulted from the combination of antidepressants such as sertraline and members of another class of antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Serotonin syndrome usually consists of at least three of the following symptoms: diarrhea, fever, sweatiness, mood or behavior changes, overactive reflexes, fast heart rate, restlessness, shivering or shaking. Because of this, sertraline should never be taken in combination with MAO inhibitors. Patient taking any MAO inhibitors, for example Nardil ( phenelzine sulfate) or Parmate ( tranylcypromine sulfate), should stop the MAO inhibitor then wait at least 14 days before starting sertraline or any other antidepressant. The same holds true when discontinuing sertraline and starting an MAO inhibitor. Also, people should not take sertraline oral concentrate while using disulfiram (Antabuse). Sertraline should never be taken by people who are any other SSRI antidepressants.

Sertraline should be used with cautiously and with close physician supervision by people with a prior history of seizures , people who are at an increased risk of bleeding, and those for whom weight loss is undesirable. Sertraline may precipitate a shift to mania in patients with bipolar (formerly manic-depressive) disease.

Side effects

More than 5% of patients experience insomnia , dizziness, and headache. About 14% of men report delayed ejaculation while 6% report decreased sex drive while taking this drug. In order to reduce these sexual side effects, patients can wait for tolerance to develop (this may take up to 12 weeks), reduce the dose, have drug holidays (where the weekend dose is either decreased or skipped), or discus with their physician using a different antidepressant.

More than 10% of patients report nausea and diarrhea while taking sertraline. Other possible side effects include agitation, anxiety, rash, constipation, vomiting, tremors, or visual difficulty. Although most side effects eventually subside, it may take up to four weeks for people to adjust to the drug.

Interactions

Sertraline interacts with St. John’s Wort , an herbal remedy for depression. The risk of seizures is increased in patients using tramadol and sertraline. Taking sertraline with MAO inhibitors may result in the serious side effects discussed above. Erythromycin, an antibiotic, may inhibit the breakdown of sertraline in the liver and cause increased central nervous system effects such as drowsiness and decreasing of mental alertness. Other antidepressants should not be taken by people using sertraline except in rare cases when prescribed by a physician. If a combination of antidepressants is considered beneficial, a low dose of tricyclic antidepressants (10–25 mg daily) should be used.

Sertraline should not be taken with grapefruit juice as the combination may increase sertraline levels in the body. (2)

Sources:

1- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sertraline

2- http://www.minddisorders.com/Py-Z/Sertraline.html

Related posts

• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Antipsychotics (0)
• Valium (diazepam) (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Newer Antidepressants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Lithium (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Anti-Anxiety Drugs (0)
• Zoloft – sertraline HCl (0)
• XEPLION® (paliperidone palmitate) (0)
• Lustral (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Psychostimulants (0)
• Lexapro (0)

Lexapro has been proven safe and effective for the acute and maintenance treatment of MDD in adults and adolescents (ages 12-17) and for the acute treatment of anxiety (GAD) in adults.
Lexapro has been prescribed to over 18 million U.S. adults
Lexapro 10mg/day may significantly improve the symptoms of depression (MDD) in adults and adolescents (aged 12-17) and anxiety (GAD) for adults

How Lexapro works

Lexapro is believed to work by increasing serotonin, a substance in the brain believed to influence mood.
How SSRIs work

Although the brain chemistry involved in depression or anxiety is not fully understood, it is widely recognized that chemical messengers facilitate communication between nerve cells in the brain and are involved in regulating many aspects of behavior and mood. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters and it is believed that neurotransmitter imbalances play an important role in the development of depression and anxiety. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has been clearly linked with most, if not all, forms of depression. SSRIs are believed to work by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, thus increasing available serotonin.

What is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Lexapro is available by prescription only.

Lexapro has been proven safe and effective for the treatment of depression (MDD) in adults and adolescents (aged 12-17) and for the treatment of anxiety (GAD) in adults.

Lexapro is believed to work by helping to restore the brain’s chemical balance; it increases serotonin, a substance in the brain believed to influence mood.
Lexapro 10mg/day may significantly improve the symptoms of depression (MDD) in adults and adolescents and anxiety (GAD) for adults.
Lexapro for Depression (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Adults

Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the acute and maintenance treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and adolescents aged 12-17 years and for the acute treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.
Lexapro is a once daily treatment for both depression (MDD) and anxiety (GAD).
The efficacy and safety of Lexapro for the treatment of MDD in adults was established in several clinical trials involving more than 1,100 adult patients, including men and women, ages 18-65.
The efficacy and safety of Lexapro in the treatment of GAD in adults was established in several clinical trials involving approximately 850 adult patients ages 18-80.
Lexapro has been prescribed to over 18 million U.S. adults.

Taking Lexapro
Lexapro is taken once daily with or without food. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription medicines or over-the-counter remedies you take.
In clinical trials, the most common side effects associated with Lexapro treatment in adults were nausea, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), ejaculation disorder (primarily ejaculation delay), fatigue and drowsiness, increased sweating, decreased libido, and anorgasmia (difficulty achieving orgasm). Side effects in pediatric patients were generally similar to those seen in adults; however, the following additional side effects were reported commonly in pediatric patients: back pain, urinary tract infection, vomiting, and nasal congestion. This is not a complete list of side effects. For more information, see Lexapro Prescribing Information. Always take Lexapro as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
Lexapro as a Treatment for Depression and Anxiety (GAD)

Lexapro has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment to relieve symptoms of MDD in both adults and adolescents and GAD in adults. You may notice an improvement in symptoms in a few weeks; though, you should continue taking Lexapro as directed by your healthcare professional. Lexapro has been prescribed to over 18 million patients. There is no generic available for LEXAPRO. Your doctor prescribed Lexapro for a reason.
Lexapro as a Treatment for Depression

Lexapro has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for depression. In controlled studies, Lexapro significantly improved the symptoms of depression in both adults and adolescents.

Medicines can sometimes work differently in different people. Talk with your healthcare professional before stopping Lexapro or changing your dose.

Remember, it is important to take your medicine for as long as your healthcare professional advises, even if you start feeling better. Otherwise your symptoms could return or worsen. Full recovery takes time.
Lexapro as a Treatment for GAD

Lexapro has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In clinical studies, Lexapro significantly reduced the symptoms of GAD for many adults.

Remember, it is important to continue to take your medicine as long as your healthcare professional advises, even if you start feeling better. Otherwise your symptoms could return or worsen. Full recovery takes time.
Different antidepressants are just that – different.
Not all antidepressants are interchangeable.

Your doctor selects and prescribes a specific antidepressant for you based on careful consideration of your symptoms, your medical history, and specific medical needs. After your doctor gives you your prescription, make sure you get exactly what your doctor ordered when you go to the pharmacy. This is especially important if you are doing well on treatment. It is important to start and stay on a medication that effectively relieves your symptoms and that you tolerate well. If you are doing well on treatment, switching your medication may compromise your treatment.
If your doctor prescribed Lexapro for you, he/she chose Lexapro for a reason.

Your doctor chose Lexapro because he or she believes it is the right treatment for you. While there are generic versions of other antidepressants, there is no generic version available for Lexapro.

Fill your prescription as prescribed right away – the sooner you begin Lexapro treatment, the sooner you may begin to feel better.
- Full antidepressant/anxiolytic effect may take 4 to 6 weeks.

When you are at the pharmacy to fill or refill your Lexapro prescription, remember:
To double check that your prescription for Lexapro is filled exactly as written by your doctor.
If a pharmacy recommends a switch to another medication, you will not be getting what your doctor prescribed because there is no generic available for Lexapro.
Your doctor prescribed Lexapro for you based on a thorough medical examination and that antidepressants are not identical or interchangeable.
If Lexapro is working for you, stick with it and take Lexapro exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Set a date for when you need to come in for your next Lexapro refill.
If you think you are experiencing side effects, you should talk with your healthcare professional.

What are the Possible Side Effects of Lexapro

In clinical trials, the most common side effects associated with Lexapro treatment in adults were nausea, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), ejaculation disorder (primarily ejaculation delay), fatigue and drowsiness, increased sweating, decreased libido, and anorgasmia (difficulty achieving orgasm). Side effects in pediatric patients were generally similar to those seen in adults; however, the following additional side effects were commonly reported in pediatric patients: back pain, urinary tract infection, vomiting, and nasal congestion.

These are not all the possible side effects with Lexapro. Please see the Important Risk Information, including boxed warning at the bottom of this page, and the full Prescribing Information.
Do not take Lexapro if you are:
Taking or have recently taken a type of drug called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), such as Nardil® (phenelzine sulfate) or Parnate® (tranylcypromine sulfate)
Taking a type of antipsychotic medicine called Orap® (pimozide)
Allergic to or have had a bad reaction to Lexapro, any of the components of Lexapro, Celexa, or generic citalopram
Taking Celexa® (citalopram) or generic citalopram

Also, to avoid a serious or potentially life-threatening condition, tell your healthcare professional if you are taking, or planning to take, any prescription or over-the-counter medications, including:
Other SSRIs, serotonin/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), certain migraine or headache medications (triptans or tramadol), or tryptophan
Any other medication prescribed for a psychiatric or neurological condition
NSAID pain relievers (such as Advil®, Motrin®, ibuprofen, Aleve®, or naproxen), aspirin, warfarin, or blood thinners
Diuretics

Nardil is a registered trademark of Parke Davis.
Parnate is a registered trademark of GlaxoSmithKline.
Orap is a registered trademark of Teva Pharmaceuticals USA.
Advil is a registered trademark of Wyeth Consumer Healthcare.
Motrin is a registered trademark of McNeil Consumer Healthcare.
Aleve is a registered trademark of Bayer HealthCare LLC.
1. Why was I prescribed Lexapro?
Lexapro is a prescription medicine for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and adolescents aged 12-17 years and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. MDD and GAD are real medical conditions that require diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional. Lexapro is a safe and effective medication that may help improve symptoms of depression in adults and adolescents aged 12-17 and generalized anxiety disorder in adults. Your healthcare professional chose Lexapro for a reason. There is no available generic substitute for Lexapro. Fill your prescription right away, the sooner you begin taking Lexapro as prescribed by your healthcare provider, the sooner you may begin to feel better. For more information, see: How Lexapro Works.
2. What is Lexapro?
Lexapro is an antidepressant and a member of the family of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
3. How does Lexapro work?
Lexapro is believed to work by increasing serotonin, a substance in the brain believed to influence mood.
4. When will I start feeling better?
You may notice an improvement in 1 to 4 weeks; however, you should continue to take Lexapro as directed by your healthcare professional. Full antidepressant/anxiolytic effect may take 4 to 6 weeks. You should follow up with your healthcare professional and report your progress. Don’t feel discouraged if your symptoms don’t improve right away. For some patients it takes longer. Keep taking your medicine until your healthcare professional advises differently. For more information, see: Should I Take Lexapro Daily?
5. Can I stop taking Lexapro once I feel better?
While you may notice improvement in a few weeks, you should continue therapy as directed by your healthcare professional. Your healthcare professional may ask you to keep taking Lexapro even if you are feeling better. Only your healthcare professional should determine the appropriate length of treatment. Talk with your healthcare professional before stopping Lexapro or changing your dose. For more information, see: For how long should I take Lexapro?
6. Are there side effects with Lexapro?
In clinical trials, the most common side effects associated with Lexapro treatment in adults were nausea, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), ejaculation disorder (primarily ejaculation delay), fatigue and drowsiness, increased sweating, decreased libido, and anorgasmia (difficulty achieving orgasm). Side effects in pediatric patients were generally similar to those seen in adults; however, the following additional side effects were reported commonly in pediatric patients: back pain, urinary tract infection, vomiting, and nasal congestion. This is not a complete list of side effects. For additional information, please see Full Prescribing Information for Lexapro.
7. Can I use Lexapro if I am pregnant?
Talk to your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking Lexapro. There have been no studies done that show Lexapro is safe to use in pregnant women. Therefore, Lexapro should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the unborn child. Be sure to talk to your doctor about this important decision.
8. Can I use Lexapro if I am breastfeeding?
Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they are breastfeeding an infant. Lexapro, like many other medicines, is excreted in breast milk. Therefore, the doctor and patient must decide whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Lexapro. The decision to continue Lexapro should take into account the risks for the infant and the benefits of Lexapro for the mother.
9. Does Lexapro cause weight gain?
In controlled studies, clinically important changes in body weight were similar for patients treated with Lexapro and those treated with placebo (sugar pill). If you have concerns about any side effects, you should talk with your healthcare professional.
10. How and when should I take Lexapro?
Lexapro should be taken once every day. It may be taken with or without food, in the morning or evening. Remember to fill prescriptions ahead of time to avoid missing a dose. To get the best results, it is important to follow all of your healthcare professional’s instructions about how and when you should take Lexapro.
11. Can I take Lexapro with other medicines?

Do not take Lexapro if you are:
Taking or have recently taken a type of drug called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), such as Nardil® (phenelzine sulfate) or Parnate® (tranylcypromine sulfate)
Taking a type of antipsychotic medicine called Orap® (pimozide)
Allergic to or have had a bad reaction to Lexapro, Celexa, generic citalopram, or any of the components of Lexapro
Taking Celexa® (citalopram) or generic citalopram

Also, to avoid a potentially serious or life-threatening condition, tell your healthcare professional if you are taking, or planning to take, any prescription or over-the-counter medications, including:
Other SSRIs, serotonin/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), certain migraine or headache medications (triptans), tramadol, or tryptophan
Any other medication prescribed for a psychiatric condition
NSAID pain relievers (such as Advil®, Motrin®, ibuprofen, Aleve®, or naproxen), aspirin, warfarin, or blood thinners
Diuretics
12. How else can I help my recovery in addition to taking Lexapro?
Be sure to keep follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional. He or she needs to track your progress. In addition to taking a medicine such as Lexapro, you may want to participate in psychotherapy or “talk therapy.” These counseling sessions can help you understand how your disorder affects you and find ways to cope with the illness. Regular physical exercise can also improve feelings of well-being. In addition, it may help to cut back on or eliminate caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, or soda. To find out which of these or other suggestions might be right for you, talk with your healthcare professional.
13. Will Lexapro affect my sex drive?
Although changes in sexual desire, sexual performance, and sexual satisfaction may occur during a depressive episode, they may also be a consequence of treatment with SSRI therapies including Lexapro. If you have questions about sexual dysfunction, speak with your healthcare professional.
14. Can I drink alcoholic beverages while taking Lexapro?
You should avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while taking Lexapro.
15. What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take your prescribed dose of Lexapro, take the missed dose that same day as soon as you remember. The next day, resume according to your regular dosing schedule. Doubling a daily dose to compensate for a missed dose is not recommended. If you have additional questions about dosing, please talk to your healthcare professional.
16. What if I have more questions about Lexapro?
Your healthcare professional should be able to answer any questions you have about your treatment. For additional information, please see Full Prescribing Information for Lexapro.
17. For how long should I take Lexapro?

Depression and generalized anxiety disorder are usually chronic medical conditions that may require long-term treatment. If your symptoms are currently controlled and you stop taking your medication for a few days, you run the risk of a relapse.

However, it is important to take your medicine as long as your healthcare professional advises, even if you start feeling better; otherwise your depression or anxiety could return or worsen. Full recovery takes time.
18. Will Lexapro work better than my current medication?
Only your healthcare professional can determine whether Lexapro is the right treatment option for you. Speak with your healthcare professional before stopping any medication. Only a healthcare professional can make decisions regarding your treatment. For more information about talking with your healthcare professional, see: Talk with Your Doctor.
19. Is there a generic Lexapro?
No, there is no available generic version of Lexapro. If your healthcare professional prescribed Lexapro, make sure your pharmacist fills as prescribed. Your healthcare professional prescribed Lexapro for a reason and can share with you why they chose Lexapro for you. For more information, see: Why Take Lexapro or Talk with Your Doctor.
Source: http://www.lexapro.com

Related posts

• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Newer Antidepressants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Antipsychotics (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Anti-Anxiety Drugs (0)
• Sertraline (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Psychostimulants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Lithium (0)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (0)
• Zoloft – sertraline HCl (0)
• XEPLION® (paliperidone palmitate) (0)
• What medications are used to treat depression? (0)

Related posts

• Suicide Rates (0)
• SSRI & SSNRI Antidepressants Side-Effects, Neurological Damage (0)
• Psychiatry (0)
• Your Drug May Be Your Problem (0)
• Valium (diazepam) (0)
• Two Psychiatric Drugs on FDA Watch List (0)
• Side Effects (0)
• Sertraline (0)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (0)
• Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychotherapy (0)

Suicide rates doubled for children of 5-14 years old over the past 20 years!   Research by James W. Prescott, Ph.D.

For youth age 15-24 suicide has been the third leading cause of death for well over a generation. Last year 15 million prescriptions were written for (SSRI) antidepressants for children and teenagers. Suicide rates have now DOUBLED for children of 5-14 years old in the past generation…

Suicide is the third highest cause of death among teenagers age 15-24. Suicide rates have doubled for children of 5-14 years old in the past generation. Last year 15 million prescriptions were written for (SSRI) antidepressants for children and teenagers.

Recently the (FDA) acknowledged an increased suicide risk associate with children taking (SSRI) antidepressants. The mental health of our children is worse off today than it was 50 years ago. But for years the National Institute of Health (NIH) has been following a biomedical model that seeks a drug to solve every problem. It’s clearly been a massive failure.

Dr. James W. Prescott, past Health Scientist Administrator of the Development Behavioral Biology Program of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NIH) says “Clearly something is wrong in our culture when our children and teens are driven into suicide, despair, and [legal] drug addiction. The NIH and America are not asking the important question: “Where is all of this coming from and what can we do to prevent it?”

AMERICA’S LOST DREAM: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

By James W. Prescott, Ph.D.

(http://www.violence.de/prescott/appp/ald.pdf)

V. Depression and Suicide in Children and Youth of America

Depression and suicide are of epidemic proportions in America. Suicide has been the third leading cause of death in the youth age group of 15-24 years for the past generation (1979-1997) and is the fifth and sixth leading cause of death in the 5-14 year age group for the years 1979 and 1997, respectively. Tables 2 & 3 show that the suicide rates have doubled in the 5-14 year age group from 1979-1997. Table 4 gives the number of suicidal and homicidal deaths for the years 1979, 1994 and 1998 for the age groups of 1-4 years; 5-14 years and 15-24 years. The total number of suicidal deaths in these age groups for the years 1979, 1994 and 1998 are 5,398; 5,274 and 4,321, respectively. This represents an average of 4,999 suicide deaths per year for these years.

Given the average of 5,000 suicidal deaths per year, the estimated total number of suicidal deaths in these age groups from 1979-2000 is 105,000 children and youth who have committed suicide over this past generation. More children and youth (ages 5-24 years) have committed suicide in the past ten years than the total number of American combat lives lost in the ten year Vietnam War (est. 55,000 v 47,355), yet little or no public attention has been given to this reality and what it represents.

There are an estimated 60,828 suicides in the 25-44 year age group for the five years from 1994-1998 (12,166×5=60,828), an estimated total of 121,656 American lives lost to suicide for ten years in this age group that is more than double all the American lives lost in the ten year Vietnam War.

Table 5 gives the suicide rates as a percent of the homicide rates for these specific age groups and for the years 1979, 1994 and 1998. For the 5-14 year old age group, suicide rates, as a percent of homicide rates, have systematically increased from 1979 to 1998, as follows: 1979:36%; 1994: 60 %; 1998:73 %.

Suicidal death, relative to homicidal death, has dramatically increased for our children and youth in the 5- 14 year age group from 1979-1998. The question that remains unanswered is why do our children and youth prefer suicidal death to living in America, presumably the healthiest, wealthiest, and greatest nation of the world? Clearly, these dramatic increases in suicide rates over a single generation cannot be attributed to any changes in the human gene pool.

These statistics indicate that America is an unsafe nation to rear its children and this conclusion is also supported by the epidemic of depression that afflicts our children and youth, as evidenced by their massive psychiatric medication (Zito, et.al, 2000). Some 1.5 million prescriptions of the anti-depressant class of drugs called the serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SRIs, e.g., Prozac) are given annually to children and youth and some 3 million prescriptions of Ritalin are prescribed annually. The problem of underestimating child/youth suicides in our society is as real as it is for child abuse homicides, previously cited (Herman-Giddens, et.al, 1999), where they found that child abuse homicides were underascertained by 62%. It is reasonable to project a similar or larger underestimation of suicidal deaths, given the higher societal and family shame and guilt that is associated with suicidal death, particularly of children and youth. Undoubtedly, many suicidal deaths are hidden in the accidental death statistics and are a greater problem than the current statistics indicate.

The pioneering study of Salk, et al (1985) found prenatal and perinatal stress factors in 81% of teen suicides that represented a 400% increased risk of suicide compared to the control subjects. The studies of the Jacobson group in Sweden also documented the role of perinatal trauma and obstetric medications on later adult behaviors of suicide, homicide and drug addictive behaviors, where increased risks for some of these behaviors was as high as 500% compared to control groups (Jacobson, et al, 1987,1988, 1990, 1998/ 2000). The study of Raine, et al (1994) found birth complications and maternal rejection predicting violent crime at 18 years of age, which adds additional evidence that prenatal/perinatal trauma contributes to adult behavioral disorders. The report of Levy (1945) that the trauma of circumcision can lead to homicidal and suicidal emotional states should not be neglected in the overall assessment of prenatal, perinatal and postnatal factors that contribute to child, teen and adult emotional-behavioral disorders.

VI. Psychiatric Medications of the Children and Youth of America.

Breggin (1994, 1995, 1998) has warned America about the effects of a Toxic Psychiatry upon the children and youth of America, which have gone unheeded. The psychiatric drugging of the children, youth and adults of America have become worse where there is little or no questions being asked by the psychiatric-political establishment as to why are all these psychiatric drugs are necessary. Breggin (2000) provides a framework for the prevention of the psychiatric drugging of the children and youth of America and a path to follow, if natural happiness is to become a reality, which is the true prevention of depression and violence.

Zito, et al (2000) have reviewed the prevalence of psychotropic medication use in children and youth; and in preschool-aged children from 1991-1995 from two state Medicaid programs and an HMO. They reported: The prevalence of psychotropic medication treatment for children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders has significantly increased in the United States during the last few decades, particularly in the last 15 years. Specifically the 5 through 14-yearold age group has experienced a great increase in stimulant treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHS), and the 15 through 19 -year- old age group has had sizable increases in the use of antidepressant medications (pp.1-2)… The rate of psychotropic medication prescribed for preschoolers in the MWM program increased substantially from 1991-1995. The increase was greatest for clonidine (28.2-fold), stimulants (3.0-fold), and antidepressants (2.2-fold). By contrast, neuroleptic use did not increase substantially during this time (p.4)… Methylphenidate (Ritalin) use according to age group in children and adolescents in the MWM program was most prominent for those aged 5-14 years… The largest methylphenidate increase (311%) was among 15 through19- year olds, whereas the 2 through 4- year-olds, like the 5-through 14 -year-olds, had a smaller but still substantial increase (169% to 176%) (pp.4-5)…

Several prominent trends characterized the use of psychotropic medications in preschoolers during the early to mid 1990s. Overall, there were large increases for all study medications (except the neuroleptics) and considerable variation according to gender, age, geographic region, and health care system. These findings are remarkable in light of the limited knowledge base that underlies psychotropic medication use in very young children. Controlled clinical studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of psychotropic medications for preschoolers are rare. Efficacy data are essentially lacking for clonidine and the SSRIs and methylphenidate’s adverse effects for preschool children are more pronounced than for older youths. Consequently, the vast majority of psychotropic medications prescribed for preschoolers are being used offlabel. (P.5).

Recall that this 5-14 year age group showed a doubling of suicide rates over the past twenty years (supra).

Source: http://www.antidepressantsfacts.com/2004-09-22-suicide-rates-doubled-5-14.htm

Related posts

• Videos (0)
• Your Drug May Be Your Problem (0)
• Two Psychiatric Drugs on FDA Watch List (0)
• SSRI & SSNRI Antidepressants Side-Effects, Neurological Damage (0)
• Side Effects (0)
• Sertraline (0)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (0)
• Psychiatry (0)
• PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS: Cure or Quackery? (0)
• Lexapro (0)

SSRI & SSNRI antidepressants induced side-effects (Iatrogenic Extrapyramidal Symptoms) are recognized to be similar to Neuroleptic (anti-psychotic) induced side-effects. These side-effects are known as Tardive Dyskinesia/Dystonia (severe body movement disorder, mostly permanent), Parkinsonism (a sign of future Parkinson’s disease) and Akathisia (a Neurological driven severe mania/agitation that can lead to suicidality, suicide attempts, self-harm & suicide). It is well documented in the medical literature that these neuroleptic induced side-effects refer to damage at dopaminergic neurons in the “motor system” of the

“Basal Ganglia”, a structure deep in the “Limbic System” of the brain. 1, 2, 3, 4, http://www.emedicine.com/EMERG/topic338.htm

Serotonin Syndrome

The Serotonin Syndrome is a potentially lethal condition caused by excessive serotonergic activity. It is a very dangerous and a potentially fatal side effect of the serotonergic enhancing drugs such as SSRI & SSNRI antidepressants and is diagnosed by the presence of at least 3 of 10 symptoms: mental status changes (confusion, hypomania), agitation, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, diaphoresis, shivering, tremor, diarrhea, incoordination, and fever. This “hyperserotonergic” toxic condition requires heightened clinical awareness in order to prevent, recognize, and treat the condition promptly. Promptness is vital because, as we just mentioned, the serotonin syndrome can be fatal and death from this side effect can come very rapidly. The Serotonin syndrome is brought on by excessive levels of serotonin and is difficult to distinguish from the “Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome” because the symptoms are so similar. The “Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome” is a serious condition brought on by the use of neuroleptic drugs (anti-psychotics).

Source: Prozac: Panacea or Pandora? by Dr Ann Blake Tracy http://members.aol.com/atracyphd/syndrome.htm

Source: Journal of Clinical Psychiatry

Antidepressant induced neurological and/or physical toxicity (body and/or brain damage) either as a result of prolonged inhibition of P450-2D6 liver-enzymes, or as a result of impairing serotonin metabolism, can take on many forms as described below. A few examples are:   Hyperserotonemia, such as the lifethreatening condition the Serotonin Syndrome, Epileptiform Discharges, Epileptic Seizures and/or Epilepsy, Hypoglycaemia/Hyperglycemia (Low/Elevated Blood Sugar Imbalance), Stroke/Hemorrhagic Syndromes, Frontal Lobe Syndrome, Tardive Dyskinesia/Dystonia, Parkinsonism, Akathisia, Mania, etc…

Source: http://www.antidepressantsfacts.com/antidepressants-ADF.htm

Related posts

• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Antipsychotics (0)
• Videos (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Anti-Anxiety Drugs (0)
• Latuda (0)
• What medications are used to treat depression? (0)
• Valium (diazepam) (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Older Antidepressants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Newer Antidepressants (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Lithium (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Barbiturates (0)

Overview
Paxil is the brand name for Paroxetine, a phenylpiperidine derivative. Paxil is an SSRI – Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, which is a type of antidepressant. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) to normal.

Paxil’s effects can usually be felt within one to four weeks.

Why is this drug prescribed?
Paxil is used primarily to treat Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD.)

Paxil is also used to treat:
depression
panic disorder / panic attacks
diabetic nerve pain (neuropathy)
chronic tension headaches
social anxiety disorder (social phobia)
premature ejaculation
premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Warnings
The safety and effectiveness of Paxil in children under 18 years old have not been established.

Paxil is not addictive. Suddenly discontinuing Paxil may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, sweating, or tremors. Dosage should be gradually tapered when Paxil is discontinued.

Paxil does not usually cause sedation, but patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery until it is known that Paxil does not affect the ability to safely engage in these activities.

For Pregnant or Nursing Mothers: One study showed no adverse effects due to Paxil during pregnancy, but further study is required and pregnant women are not advised to take Paxil. Paxil passes into human breast milk, and nursing mothers should not take Paxil.

Contraindications
Paxil should Not be used for people with an allergy or hypersensitivity to this drug or any SSRI.

Precautions
Paxil may be used with caution in people with the following conditions:
liver or kidney disease – lower dosage may be needed
seizures (epilepsy or convulsions) – risk of seizures is increased
a history of mania – Paxil may activate mania
elderly – lower dosage may be needed
brain disease or damage
mental retardation

Adverse Reactions
Paxil may cause the following reactions:
lowered blood pressure and fainting upon standing (postural hypotension)
sweating
dry mouth
nausea
headache
drowsiness
sedation
nervousness
insomnia
constipation
weakness
loss of appetite
taste disorders
tingling in hands
upset stomach
dizziness
blurred vision
itching
chills
abnormal ejaculation
impotence
sexual dysfunction
diarrhea
hypomania
seizures

Interactions with Drugs and Other Substances
Drugs or substances that may interact with Paxil are:
MAO Inhibitors (within 14 days) – serious or even fatal interactions can occur when taken with Paxil
benzodiazepines, desipramine, Haldol (haloperidol), and Normodyne (labetalol) – Paxil may increase the effects of these drugs
Dilantin (phenytoin) – can decrease blood levels of Paxil and reduce its effects
Quinaglute (quinidine) and Tagamet(cimetidine) – can increase Paxil levels and lead to drug toxicity
Astemizole (Hismanal) – can lead to a serious change in heart rhythm when taken with Paxil
Ultram (tramadol) – can increase the risk of seizures when taken with Paxil
Tryptophan – can increase side effects such as sweating, nausea, and dizziness when taken with Paxil
Coumadin (warfarin) – can cause bleeding when taken with Paxil
Moclobemide (Manerex) within 3 to 7 days
Buspirone (BuSpar), Bromocriptine (Parlodel), Dextromethorphan (cough medicine), Levodopa (Sinemet), Lithium, Meperidine (Demerol), Nefazodone (Serzone), Pentazocine (Talwin), other SSRIs (such as: Citalopram [Celexa], fluoxetine [Prozac], fluvoxamine [Luvox], sertraline [Zoloft]), LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), marijuana, Sumatriptan (Imitrex), Tramadol (Ultram), Trazodone (Desyrel), Tryptophan, Venlafaxine (Effexor) – taking these medicines with Paxil can increase the chance of developing a rare, but very serious, unwanted effect known as the serotonin syndrome, whose symptoms include confusion, diarrhea, fever, poor coordination, restlessness, shivering, sweating, talking or acting with excitement you cannot control, trembling or shaking, or twitching.

Source: http://whatmeds.stanford.edu/medications/paroxetine.html

Related posts

• Sertraline (0)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (0)
• Zoloft – sertraline HCl (0)
• Lexapro (0)
• Your Drug May Be Your Problem (0)
• XANAX XR (0)
• What medications are used to treat depression? (0)
• Videos (0)
• Valium (diazepam) (0)
• The Side Effects Of Common Psychiatric Drugs: Psychostimulants (0)