Posted by Racer on August 15, 2004, at 23:08:06
In reply to Non-SSRI Depression relief?, posted by becksA on August 15, 2004, at 22:15:19
Yes, there are three major classes of antidepressants -- the SSRIs, the tricyclics, and the monoamine oxydase inhibitors. Then there are the newer drugs, like Wellbutrin and Effexor.
Generally speaking, all are about equally effective -- although that doesn't mean that all are equally effective for each person taking them. Some people respond better to one drug or class of drugs than to another. That's why finding a drug involves so much trial and error.
The tricyclics, or TCAs, are very effective for many people. They do have side effects for many people, but they are very effective drugs. The same is true for the monoamine oxydase inhibitors, or MAOIs. The biggest drawback to the MAOIs is that there are dietary restrictions that must be taken seriously, and which include many over the counter drugs, as well.
The SSRIs are the first line drugs these days, for a variety of reasons that really don't have a lot to do with their effectiveness. They're safer than the older drugs -- much lower risk in overdose, for example, and fewer side effects. Of course, as they've been used longer, more side effects have shown up, so that might not be such a selling point anymore.
If you read through this board, you'll see that there are a fair number of people here who sing the praises of the tried and true TCAs and MAOIs.
Good luck.
poster:Racer
thread:378077
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040811/msgs/378087.html