With an ever-growing list of anti-depressant medication available, doctors and patients are faced with many choices. In the past, severe side effects may have dissuaded patients from utilizing psychotherapy medication to treat depression, but newly developed and marketed medications, like Trintellix or Viibryd, are changing this medication-free approach. The benefits of these medications could outweigh the negatives for some patients. Dr. David Salvage, located in Park Slope and Tribeca, has explored some of these new medications with interest.
It’s estimated that 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making the need for quality and effective medication essential. While medications have been shown to be somewhat effective in relieving depression symptoms in some of those patients, many sufferers have found the side effects to be intolerable. Common side effects include: nausea, weight gain, loss of sexual desire, fatigue, insomnia and more.
But newly marketed medications are combating these side effects and providing relief to patients who didn’t find success with previous medical treatments.
Trintellix, also called Brintellix, is an SSRI, meaning it increases amount and effect of serotonin in the brain, which regulates mood. In addition to its depression treatments, this drug is also shown to help improve focus and mental clarity in some patients. This means that it improves the cloudy thinking that often accompanies depression.
Viibryd, or vilazodone, has also shown positive treatment benefits. This medication affects a specific reactor in the brain that affects blood pressure, heart rate, aggression reactions and addictive behavior. This specific targeting could be a promising advancement in the treatment of depression in some patients.
Fetzima, also known as Levomilnacipran, is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRIs). As a slow-release capsule, Fetzima might lessen the threat of side effects for some patients, making it more tolerable and effective.
As with any prescribed medication, psychotherapy patients should discuss their options carefully and completely with their doctors. Anti-depressants aren’t a one-size-fits all medication. The type of medication and the dosage will vary from person to person. However, these newly marketed medications are showing positive benefits and may bring relief to those who were unable to handle side effects from previous medications.
