Medication Therapy

Many people shy away from the idea of taking medication for the fear that it might alter their personality or have severe side effects. These concerns are understandable, however, if you have been feeling sad for a prolonged period and you cannot shake it off, medication may be an option to consider. Medications, like antidepressants, have made a huge difference in the lives of many people suffering with mental health challenges. In fact, Antidepressants are the second most prescribed drug in the US.

 Antidepressant Medication

 Antidepressant medications are for the treatment of clinical depression and related problems, not the everyday sadness we all feel from time to time. Depression as a psychiatric diagnosis, is defined as being sad most or all the time and being in this state for at least two weeks. Antidepressants work by balancing chemicals in your brain called “neurotransmitters” that affect mood and emotions. Increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter’s serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine seem to help lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

 Antianxiety Medication

Unlike everyday stress, clinical anxiety is a medical disorder defined by excessive feelings of worry, being in constant fear, or having persistent and sometimes intrusive thoughts about specific fears. Anti-anxiety medications help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, such as panic attacks, or extreme fear and worry. The most common anti-anxiety medications are called benzodiazepines. Medication treatment of anxiety is generally safe and effective and often used in conjunction with therapy

 Are Psychotropic Medications Effective?

Antidepressants were first discovered as helpful for depression in 1951 and introduced into medical practice in 1957. Since then, they have been shown to work, again and again, in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. All currently licensed antidepressants increase the levels neurotransmitters – especially serotonin and/or norepinephrine – by which nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other across a gap known as a synapse.

Our Psychiatrist Dr. James Fuqua is ready to walk you through your medication journey. Give us a call to get scheduled 210-523-4200.