keep the weight off; healthier food choices tend to be lower in fat and calories. Exercise is a great way to help both weight loss and depression. It doesn't take very much, just a 15-30 minute walk three times a week can produce great improvements. Always check with your Physician before starting any new exercise program.
.....One major side effect of antidepressants is one that no one wants to talk about, sexual dysfunction. The fact that depression can also cause sexual dysfunction compounds this problem. Antidepressants can affect all aspects of sexual health including libido, arousal, and orgasm. There are a few options than can help with these side effects; check with your Doctor before attempting any of these options. The first option is to wait and see, usually within 2-3 weeks this side effect will diminish. Check with your Physician before trying this, but sometimes a temporary dose reduction or skipping a few days will help (ie. half doses on weekends). Be very careful with this option, as it may lead |
to a worsening of depression symptoms or other unwanted side effects. There is some evidence which suggests that ginkgo biloba can help relieve some of the sexual side effects caused by antidepressants. Doses of 60mg three times a day are required. Check with your Doctor or Peoples Pharmacist to see if this option might be right for you, as ginkgo biloba can sometimes interfere with blood thinning medications. Women might consider using vaginal lubricants or estrogen creams to help with vaginal dryness or discomfort. An older medication, which was effective in helping with this side effect is Cyproheptadine. This mediation is an older antihistamine and antiserotonin agent. Doses of 4-12mg could be taken daily at bedtime or sometimes taken about one hour before intercourse. The major side effects with this medication are sedation and increased appetite.
.....One last side effect of antidepressants doesn't happen until you stop taking them. This is more problematic with the SSRIs and is aptly |
named SSRI withdrawal syn drome. Withdrawal is perhaps not the best word to use. After taking SSRIs for an extended period of time, abrupt cessation may cause symptoms of anxiety, tremors, nausea, insomnia and other unpleasant symptoms. This is why it is important that you not miss too many doses and gradually reduce your dosage when you plan to stop taking SSRIs. Check with your Doctor or Peoples Pharmacist for strategies to try and avoid SSRI withdrawal syndrome.
.....Depression is a medical condition that can affect anyone at any age. While it can be very debilitating, there are mediations that can help. Another treatment option for depression, that is often overlooked is talk therapy with a trained counselor. While mediations can help they are not without side effects, but there are ways to help you cope with them. Remember your Doctor and Peoples Pharmacist are there if you need help.
Written By Ian Lloyd, Pharmacist & Chartered Herbalist
Peoples Pharmacy, Victoria |
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