What is imipramine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Imipramine is an antidepressant medication of the tricyclic class. Medications in this class are often referred to as tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs. Depression is defined as an all-pervasive sense of sadness and gloom. In patients with depression, abnormal levels of chemicals in the brain …
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What is trimipramine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) in the same family as amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor; Aventyl), and desipramine (Norpramin). Trimipramine works by raising the brain's level of norepinephrine (a neurotransmitter) to more normal levels. It also has anti-cholinergic actions (opposing the effects of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine) which …
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What is bupropion extended release, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Bupropion hydrochloride is an antidepressant medication that affects chemicals within the brain that nerves use to send messages to each other. (Forfivo XL is an extended release form of bupropion hydrochloride.) Chemical messengers are called neurotransmitters. Many experts believe that depression is caused by an imbalance among …
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What is fluvoxamine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluvoxamine is a drug that is used for treating several psychiatric disorders. It is a member of the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class that also includes fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors affect neurotransmitters, chemicals that nerves in …
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What is paroxetine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Paroxetine is an oral drug that is used for treating depression. It is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class that also contains fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), and sertraline (Zoloft). Paroxetine affects neurotransmitters, the chemicals that nerves within the brain use to communicate …
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What is mirtazapine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mirtazapine is a tetracyclic antidepressant similar to maprotiline (Ludiomil) and tricyclic antidepressants, for example, desipramine (Norpramin). Depression is an all-pervasive sense of sadness and gloom. It is believed that in some patients with depression, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals that nerves use to communicate with each other) may be …
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What are monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)? How do they work (mechanism of action)? MAOIs were the first class of antidepressants to be developed. They fell out of favor because of concerns about interactions with certain foods and numerous drug interactions. MAOIs elevate the levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine by inhibiting an enzyme called monoamine oxidase. Monoamine oxidase breaks down …
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Postpartum depression facts Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common problem associated after childbirth. Peripartum depression is fatigue that a woman experiences during pregnancy or within four weeks of giving birth. Postpartum depression is medically considered a subset of peripartum depression. PPD can affect as many as 10% of fathers as well. Biological, psychological, and social factors play roles in predisposing …
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What’s the Difference Between Lexapro and Cymbalta? Lexapro (escitalopram) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) are used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Cymbalta is also used to treat pain from diabetic neuropathy and fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Lexapro and Cymbalta belong to different drug classes. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a selective serotonin …
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Lexapro vs. Paxil Lexapro (escitalopram) and Paxil (paroxetine) are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants used to treat depression. Lexapro is also used to treat anxiety disorders. Side effects of Lexapro and Paxil that are similar include nausea, headaches, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), drowsiness, dry mouth, increased sweating, and changes in appetite. Antidepressants such as Lexapro and Paxil may also …
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