Antidepressants are medicines that have activity against depressive states. Depression is a mental disorder characterized by a decrease in mood, a weakening of motor activity, intellectual scarcity, an erroneous evaluation of your "I" in the surrounding reality, somatovegetative disorders.
The most likely cause of depression is the biochemical theory, according to which there is a decrease in the level of neurotransmitters - nutrients in the brain, as well as a reduced sensitivity of receptors to these substances.
All preparations of this group are divided into several classes, but now - about the history.
Contents
- History of the discovery of antidepressants
- Magic tablets - their groups
- The mechanism of action of antidepressants
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Scope of application
- Side effects of
- Tranquilizers and antidepressants: what's the difference?
- Power of "magic tablets"
- Our TOP-30: the best antidepressants
- Everyone will find something for the pocket
- The truth behind the edge of the theory is always
The history of the discovery of antidepressants
Since ancient times, humanity has approached the issue of treating depression with different theories and hypotheses. Ancient Rome was famous for its ancient Greek physician named Soran of Ephesus, who offered for the treatment of mental disorders, and depressions including - lithium salts.
In the course of scientific and medical progress, some scientists have resorted to a number of substances that have been used against the war with 
depression - ranging from cannabis, opium and barbiturates, to amphetamine. The last of them, however, was used in the treatment of apathy and languid depressions, which were accompanied by stupor and refusal of food.
The first antidepressant was synthesized in the laboratories of Geigy in 1948.This drug was Imipramine. After that, clinical studies were carried out, but they did not begin to produce it until 1954, when Aminazine was obtained. Since then, many antidepressants have been discovered, which we will discuss further on.
Magic tablets - their groups
All antidepressants are divided into 2 large groups:
- Timeretics are drugs with stimulating effect that are used to treat depressive states with signs of depression and oppression.
- Timothyles - drugs with sedative properties. Treatment of depressions with predominantly excitatory processes.
Further, antideprisants are divided according to their mechanism of action.
Non-selective action:
- Melipramine;
- Amisole.
Selective action:
- blocks the seizure of serotonin - Flunisan, Sertraline, Fluvoxamine;
- block the seizure of norepinephrine - Maprotiline, Reboxetine.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors:
- nonselective ( inhibit monoamine oxidase A and B) - transamin;
- selective ( inhibit monoamine oxidase A) - Autorix.
Antidepressants of other pharmacological groups - Coaxil, Mirtazapine.
Mechanism of action of antidepressants
In short, antidepressants can correct some processes occurring in the brain. The human brain consists of a huge number of nerve cells called neurons. The neuron consists of a body( soma) and processes - axons and dendrites. The neurons are interconnected through these processes.
It should be clarified that among themselves they are communicated by a synapse( synaptic cleft), which is located between them. Information from one neuron to another is transmitted by means of a biochemical substance - a mediator. At the moment, about 30 different mediators are known, but the following triad is associated with depression: serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine. By regulating their concentration, antidepressants correct the impaired brain function due to depression.
The mechanism of action differs depending on the group of antidepressants:
- Inhibitors of neuronal capture ( indiscriminate action) block the reuptake of mediators - serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Serotonin neuronal uptake inhibitors : The serotonin seizure process is inhibited, increasing its concentration in the synaptic cleft. A distinctive feature of this group is the absence of m-cholinoblocking activity. Only a slight effect on α-adrenergic receptors appears. For this reason, such antidepressants have virtually no side effects.
- Inhibitors of neuronal norepinephrine seizure : inhibit norepinephrine reuptake.
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors : Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that breaks the structure of neurotransmitters, resulting in their inactivation. Monoamine oxidase exists in two forms: MAO-A and MAO-B.MAO-A acts on serotonin and noradrenaline, MAO-B - dopamine. MAO inhibitors block the action of this enzyme, which increases the concentration of mediators. As drugs of choice in the treatment of depression, they often stop on MAO-A inhibitors.
Modern classification of antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants
The tricyclic group of drugs blocks the transport system of presynaptic endings. Proceeding from this, such means provide infringement of neuronal capture of neuromediators. This effect allows longer stay of these mediators in the synapse, thereby ensuring a longer action of mediators on postsynaptic receptors.
Drugs of this group have α-adrenoblocking and m-cholinoblocking activity - cause such side effects:
- dryness in the oral cavity;
- violation of the accommodation function of the eye;
- atony of the bladder;
- lowering blood pressure.
Scope
It is rational to use antidepressants for the prevention and treatment of depression, neuroses, panic conditions, enuresis, obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain syndrome, schizoaffective disorder, dysthymia, generalized anxiety disorder, sleep disorder.
There is evidence of an effective intake of antidepressants as an auxiliary pharmacotherapy for early ejaculation, bulimia and tobacco smoking.
Side effects of
Since these antidepressants have a diverse chemical structure and mechanism of action, the side effects may differ. 
But all the antidepressants have the following common signs when they are taken: hallucinations, agitation, insomnia, the development of manic syndrome.
Timoleptics cause psychomotor retardation, drowsiness and lethargy, reduced concentration of attention. Timiryetics can lead to psycho-productive symptoms( psychosis) and increased anxiety.
The most common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants include:
- constipation;
- mydriasis;
- urinary retention;
- of the atony of the intestine;
- violation of the swallowing act;
- tachycardia;
- cognitive impairment( memory impairment and learning processes).
In elderly patients, delirium may occur - confusion, disorientation, anxiety, visual hallucinations. In addition, the risk of weight gain increases, the development of orthostatic hypotension, neurological disorders( tremor, ataxia, dysarthria, myoclonic muscle twitching, extrapyramidal disorders).
- Agomelatin - is used for episodes of major depression of various genesis. The effect occurs after a lapse of 2 weeks.
- Adress - provokes oppression of seizure of serotonin, is used for depressive episodes, the effect occurs after 7-14 days.
- Azafen - is used for depressive episodes. The treatment course is not less than 1.5 months.
- Azone - increases the serotonin content, is part of the group of strong antidepressants.
- Aleval - prevention and treatment of depressive states of various etiologies.
- Amizole - prescribe with anxiety and arousal, behavioral disorders, depressive episodes.
- Anafranil - stimulation of catecholaminergic transmission. Has an adrenoblocking and anticholinergic action. The sphere of application is depressive episodes, obsessive states and neuroses.
- Asentra is a specific inhibitor of the capture of serotonin. It is indicated for panic disorders, in the treatment of depression.
- Auroriks is an inhibitor of MAO-A.It is used for depression and phobias.
- Brintellix is a serotonin receptor antagonist 3, 7, 1d, a serotonin receptor agonist 1a, correction of anxiety disorders and depressive states.
- Valdoxan is a stimulant of melatonin receptors, to a small extent a blocker of the subgroup of serotonin receptors. Therapy of anxiety-depressive disorder.
- Velaxin is an antidepressant of another chemical group that enhances neurotransmitter activity.
- Velbutrin - is used for non-severe depression.
- Venlaxor is a potent inhibitor of serotonin reuptake. Weak β-blocker. Therapy of depressive conditions and anxiety disorders.
- The heptor - in addition to antidepressant activity, has antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. It is transferred well.
- Herbion Hypericum is a herbal preparation that belongs to the group of natural antidepressants. It is prescribed for mild depressions and panic attacks.
- Deprex - antidepressant has antihistamine action, is used in the treatment of mixed anxiety and depressive disorders.
- Depresfalt , a serotonin uptake inhibitor, has little effect on dopamine and norepinephrine. There is no stimulating and sedative effect. The effect develops 2 weeks after admission.
- Depriming is an antidepressant and sedative effect due to the presence of an extract of St. John's wort. The use for the therapy of children is allowed.
- Doxepin is an H1 blocker of serotonin receptors. The effect develops 10-14 days after the beginning of the admission. Indication - anxiety, depression, panic conditions.
- Zoloft - the scope of application is not limited to depressive episodes. It is prescribed for social phobias, panic disorders.
- Ixel is an antidepressant that has a broad spectrum of action, an selective serotonin uptake blocker.
- Coaxil - increases synaptic uptake of serotonin. The effect occurs within 21 days.
- Maprotiline - is used in endogenous, psychogenic, somatogenic depressions. The mechanism of action is based on the inhibition of the capture of serotonin.
- Miansan is a stimulator of adrenergic transmission in the brain. It is prescribed for hypochondria and depression of various origins.
- Miracitol - enhances the action of serotonin, increases its content in the synapse. In combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, there are pronounced adverse reactions.
- Nerustrin is an antidepressant of vegetable origin. Effective for mild depressive disorders.
- Newvelong is a reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Prodep - selectively blocks the seizure of serotonin, increasing its concentration. Does not cause a decrease in the activity of β-adrenoreceptors. Effective in depressive states.
- The citon - a high-precision blocker for the capture of serotonin, minimally affects the concentration of dopamine and norepinephrine.
With prolonged admission, cardiotoxic effects( cardiac conduction abnormalities, arrhythmias, ischemic disorders), decreased libido.
When receiving selective inhibitors of neuronal seizure of serotonin, the following reactions are possible: gastroenterological - dyspeptic syndrome: abdominal pain, indigestion, constipation, vomiting and nausea. Increased anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, tremors, libido, loss of motivation and emotional dulling.
Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors cause side effects such as: insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, atony of the bladder, irritability and aggressiveness.
Tranquilizers and antidepressants: what's the difference?
Tranquilizers( anxiolytics) are substances that eliminate anxiety, fear and inner emotional tension. The mechanism of action is associated with the increase and increase in GABA-ergic inhibition. GABA is a nutrient that fulfills a retarding role in the brain.
Are prescribed as a therapy for distinct attacks of anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, as well as neurotic and neurosis-like conditions.
Hence it can be concluded that tranquilizers and antidepressants have different mechanisms of action and differ significantly from each other. Tranquilizers are not able to treat depressive disorders, so their appointment and reception is irrational.
Power of "magic tablets"
Depending on the severity of the disease and the effect of the application, you can identify several groups of drugs.
Strong antidepressants - effectively used in the treatment of severe depression: 
- Imipramine - has a pronounced antidepressant and sedative properties. The onset of the therapeutic effect is observed after 2-3 weeks. Side effect: tachycardia, constipation, violation of urination and dry mouth.
- Maprotiline, Amitriptyline - are similar to Imipramine.
- Paroxetine - high antidepressant activity and anxiolytic action. It is taken once a day. The therapeutic effect develops within 1-4 weeks after the onset of admission.
Light antidepressants - are prescribed in cases of moderate and mild depression:
- Doxepin - improves mood, eliminates apathy and depression. The positive effect of therapy is observed after 2-3 weeks of taking the drug.
- Mianserin - has antidepressant, sedative and hypnotic properties.
- Tianeptine - stops motor retardation, improves mood, increases the general tone of the body. It leads to the disappearance of somatic complaints caused by anxiety. Due to the presence of a balanced action, it is shown with anxious and inhibited depressions.
Vegetable natural antidepressants:
- St. John's wort - in the composition it has hepericin, which has an antidepressant property.
- Novo-Passit - it includes valerian, hops, St. John's wort, hawthorn, lemon balm. Promotes the disappearance of anxiety, stress and headaches.
- Persen - also has in its composition a collection of herbs of peppermint, lemon balm, valerian. Has a sedative effect.
Hawthorn, rosehip - have a sedative property.
Our TOP-30: the best antidepressants
We analyzed almost all antidepressants that are available for sale at the end of 2016, reviewed reviews and compiled a list of the top 30 drugs that have virtually no side effects, but at the same time are very effective and goodperform their tasks( each their own):
Everyone will find something for the pocket
Antidepressants are often expensive, we have compiled a list of the most inexpensive of them by the rise in price, at the beginning of which the cheapest drugs are located, and intse more expensive:
- The most well-known antidepressant is the cheapest and the cheapest( maybe this is so popular) Fluoxetine 10 mg 20 capsules - 35 rub;
- Amitriptyline 25 mg 50 tab - 51 rubles;
- Pyrazidol 25 mg 50 tab - 160 rubles;
- Azafen 25 mg 50 tab - 204 rubles;
- Depriming 60 mg 30 tab - 219 rubles;
- Paroxetine 20 mg 30 tab - 358 rubles;
- Melipramine 25 mg 50 tab - 361 rubles;
- Adepress 20 mg 30 tab - 551 rubles;
- Velaxin 37.5 mg 28 tab - 680 rubles;
- Paxil 20 mg 30 tab - 725 rub;
- Rexetin 20 mg 30 tab - 781 rubles;
- Velaxin 75 mg 28 tab - 880 rubles;
- Stimulotone 50 mg 30 tab - 897 rubles;
- Cipramil 20 mg 15 tab - 899 rubles;
- Venlaxor 75 mg 30 tab - 901 rub.
The truth behind the edge of the theory is always
In order to understand the essence of modern, even the best antidepressants, to understand what their benefits and harms, it is also necessary to study the responses of people who had to take them. Apparently, there is nothing good in their reception.
I tried to fight depression with antidepressants. I quit, because the result is depressing. I was looking for a lot of information about them, read many sites. Everywhere contradictory information, but everywhere, wherever I read, they write that there is nothing good in them. I myself experienced shaking, breaking, dilated pupils. I was frightened, decided that they did not need me.
Alina, 20
His wife took Paxil a year after giving birth. She said that the state of health remains the same bad. I gave up, but the cancellation syndrome began - tears were pouring out, there was a breakdown, the hand reached for the pills. After that, antidepressants respond negatively. I have not tried it.
Lenya, 38
And I was helped by antidepressants, the drug Neurofulol helped, it is sold without a prescription. Well helped with depressive episodes. Adjusts the central nervous system for well-functioning work. I felt great at the same time. Now I do not need such drugs, but I recommend it if you need to buy something without prescriptions. If you need a stronger one, go to a doctor.
Valerchik, a visitor to the site Neurodok
Three years ago, depression began, while running to clinics for doctors, it became worse. There was no appetite, lost interest in life, there was no sleep, memory worsened. Visited a psychiatrist, he gave me Stimulaton. The effect was felt on the 3rd month of admission, stopped thinking about the disease. Saw about 10 months. He helped me.
Karina, 27
It is important to remember that antidepressants are not harmless means and should be consulted before using them. He will be able to pick up the right drug and its dosage.
It should be very carefully monitored for your mental health and in due time turn to specialized institutions, in order not to aggravate the situation, and in time to get rid of the ailment.
