Medications for Depression, Anxiety, and Memory Loss

There are many types of medications that treat depression, anxiety and memory loss, and all need a doctor's prescription. They're used primarily to increase brain neurotransmitters that elevate emotions and promote healthy brain function.

Types

Depression, anxiety and memory loss medications fall under several major types: Tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, benzodiazepines, tranquilizers, cholinesterase inhibitors, and memantine.

Common Medications

Well known prescription medications are Prozac, Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Cymbalta, Valium, Xanax, Exelon, and Aricept. Ginkgo biloba is sometimes used to treat memory loss.

Side Effects

Potential side effects include sleepiness or insomnia, fatigue, dry mouth, blurry vision, constipation or diarrhea, rapid heart rate, low sex drive, headaches, chest pain, stiff neck, sweating, weight loss, decreased or increased appetite, nausea and vomiting.

Considerations

Certain foods may interact negatively with specific medications. Alcohol should not be consumed. Medications for depression, anxiety and memory loss are not intended for long-term therapy.

Risks

Some medications for depression and anxiety may cause children and teenagers to contemplate suicide. These medications are habit-forming and potentially addictive, and shouldn't be mixed with other pain or sleeping pills as the results could be fatal.

References

• Drugs to Treat Depression
• Medications for Anxiety Disorders
• Medications for Memory Impairment

Resources

• Selecting the Right Antidepressant
• What You Need to Know About Depression Medication