Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Conventional and Prescription Medications
Conventional medications used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder may deplete nutrients or interfere with nutrient absorption, as well as potentially cause other adverse side effects. Following is a list of conventional medications that may be used for SAD:
- Antidepressants – Brand names: Elavil®, Prozac®, Wellbutrin®. A class of prescription medications used to treat depression, including that associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Users should be aware of potential interactions with other medications and herbal remedies, as well as the potential for dependency. Antidepressants are not known to deplete any nutrients.5
- Mood Stabilizers – Brand names: Lithobid®, Depakote®, Lamictal®, Carbatrol®, Tegretol®, Zyprexa®, Trileptal®, Seroquel®, Risperdal®, and Geodon®. A class of prescription medications used to stabilize mood that can help balance the “ups” of summer and the “blues” of winter. Depending on the type of stabilizer used, side effects may include tremor, weight gain, edema (water retention), and nausea. Nutrients depleted may include inositol, carnitine, folic acid, and zinc.6,7
Additional Information about Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Seasonal Affective Disorder Overview
- Common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder
- Common causes of seasonal affective disorder
- Help me choose a natural and alternative treatment for seasonal affective disorder
- Dietary and lifestyle recommendations that may help in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder
- Cited Sources and Additional Reading for seasonal affective disorder
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Article ID: 236
