Some Medications That Can Cause Depression As A Side Effect
Some Medications That Can Cause Depression As A Side Effect
Los Angles pharmacy, prescribed medications
Have you ever experienced depression or are you familiar with someone who does? It's probable. At
least 5% of adults worldwide are thought to be affected by depression, a widespread mental health
disorder. Since many depression cases go unreported, the actual number is probably far higher.
People who encounter depression symptoms frequently have common themes. The way your brain
works, your genes, and the events of your life can all raise your risk for it. It is not helpful if your
symptoms are caused by or made worse by medications that add to this list.
As a Los Angeles pharmacy, we will talk about eight popular drugs that have been connected to
developing or worsening depression.
Prednisone And Other Corticosteroids
A variety of inflammatory medical problems are treated with corticosteroids. They function by bringing
down bodily swelling and regulating immune system activity. Prednisone, dexamethasone, and
methylprednisolone (Medrol) are excellent examples.
Your brain's neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, can become out of balance as a result of
corticosteroids. Your mental health could be affected by these changes. In some circumstances,
corticosteroids have been proven to increase the chance of developing depression, anxiety, and
sleeplessness. Another possibility is irritability.
Medicines For Parkinson's Such As Sinemet
People with Parkinson's disease often experience depression. The illness itself may lead to alterations in
brain chemistry that result in depression and anxiety.
Depression can also be brought on by Parkinson's disease medications. According to one study,
Levodopa may exacerbate depression, particularly when given in high doses. One of the main
components of the popular Parkinson's drug Sinemet (carbidopa/levodopa) is levodopa.
Stimulants Such As Adderall
For diseases like ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy, stimulants like Adderall
(amphetamine salts) are often prescribed medications. These drugs frequently help with attention and
mood problems.
Stimulants, however, are controlled substances. They come with a chance of abuse and dependency.
Additionally, depression might manifest in those who are going through Adderall withdrawal. When
starting and discontinuing a stimulant, make sure you strictly adhere to your doctor's instructions.
Lamotrigine And Other Anticonvulsants
Antiepileptic drugs, sometimes known as anticonvulsants, are prescribed to treat seizure disorders.
While some of these drugs can lift your spirits, others can make it worse. Common examples include
phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek), gabapentin (Neurontin, Horizant), and lamotrigine (Lamictal, Lamictal
XR).
An FDA-mandated warning on the label of every anticonvulsant drug states that there is a possibility
that it could lead to suicidal thoughts and actions. On this, several medical professionals have differing
views. For instance, epilepsy by itself can raise the danger of depression. Additionally, untreated
epilepsy has a greater danger than the relatively low chance of mental health side effects from these
drugs.