ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Antidepressant medication refers to a class of drugs primarily prescribed for the treatment of depression, as well as other mental health disorders such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain phobias. These medications work by altering the balance of chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, which affect mood regulation.
One of the most commonly prescribed classes of antidepressant medications is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by increasing the amount of serotonin available in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro). Other classes of antidepressants include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Antidepressant medications are usually prescribed by healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists or primary care physicians, after a thorough evaluation of the patient's symptoms and medical history. These medications are typically taken orally in the form of pills or capsules and are often prescribed for a specific duration of time, depending on the individual's response to treatment.
While antidepressant medications can help alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health disorders, they also carry potential side effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, nausea, weight changes, sexual dysfunction, and dry mouth. Additionally, it is important for individuals taking antidepressants to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider to ensure the medication is effective and to address any potential risks or adverse reactions.
Common Misspellings for ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION
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Etymology of ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION
The word "antidepressant" is derived from two components: "anti-" and "depressant".
The prefix "anti-" is of Greek origin, meaning "against" or "opposing". It is commonly used in English to denote something that is counteracting or preventing a certain condition or effect.
The word "depressant" comes from the Latin word "depressus", which is the past participle of the verb "deprimere", meaning "to press down" or "to depress". In this context, "depressant" refers to a substance that depresses or dampens a particular function or activity.
When combined, "anti-" and "depressant" form the word "antidepressant", which literally means "opposing depression" or "counteracting depressant effects". "Antidepressant medication" refers to pharmaceutical substances or drugs that are used to alleviate or treat symptoms of depression.
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