Medications and other substances that can cause symptoms of depression
Content provided by Healthwise
Medications and other substances that can cause symptoms of depression
Many medications and other substances can cause changes in how we feel. Medications that can cause symptoms of depression include:
- Antihypertensives, such as clonidine (Catapres).
- Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital, pentobarbital (Nembutal), and secobarbital (Seconal).
- Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), or lorazepam (Ativan).
- Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil (Calan).
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone.
- Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and hormone therapy used to treat the symptoms of menopause.
- Medications used to treat Parkinson's disease or other neurological disorders, such as restless legs syndrome.
- Medications used to treat seizures, such as phenytoin (Dilantin).
- Pain medications, such as meperidine (Demerol) or codeine.
Symptoms of depression can also be caused by the use of or withdrawal from alcohol and illegal drugs, such as cocaine, amphetamines (methamphetamines, crystal meth, or crack), heroin, and cannabis (marijuana).
If you think that your feelings of depression may be caused by a medication:
- Call the health professional who prescribed the medication, to determine whether you should stop taking it or take a different one.
- If you are taking a nonprescription medication, stop taking it. Call your health professional if you feel you need to continue taking the medication.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Lila Havens |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
| Last Updated | March 21, 2007 |
| Last updated: | March 21, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Ralph Poore |
| Reviewed By: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
