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Depression is a serious mental health concern affecting more than 121 million people around the world, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Antidepressant medications are an effective treatment to help manage this condition.
Identification
Antidepressants can help relieve the symptoms of depression, but the Mayo Clinic reports that there is no cure for depression.
Features
Medical treatment with antidepressants often works best when combined with psychotherapy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Effects
Medications used in the treatment of depression can improve effects of the illness like appetite, concentration, mood and sleep, according to Medline Plus.
Function
Antidepressants target depression by helping the brain to better use neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages between brain cells, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Time Frame
It may take as long as one month of treatment with antidepressants in order to see the full benefit of the treatment, according to the AAFP.
Considerations
Some people have depression which does not respond well to treatment with antidepressants, and they and their doctors will have to work together to find an effective treatment plan, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Source:
Food and Drug Administration: Understanding Antidepressants
Mayo Clinic: Depression Treatments and Drugs
More Information:
American Academy of Family Physicians: Antidepressants: Medicine for Depression
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