As you may be aware, there are many depression and anxiety meds on the market, some of which are quite strong. Unfortunately anxiety and depression are rampant and it is predicted that by 2020 depression alone will be the most common and serious health problem in the world! With the ever rising levels of anxiety and stress and this worrisome outlook, there is no doubt that pharmaceutical companies will keep coming up with more and maybe stronger formulas for these health concerns.

We understand the seriousness of a health problem such as depression, and as such we always advice people to talk to their doctors about their situation, discuss his or her recommendations and their need for depression and anxiety meds, as well as their possible side effects. We also encourage people experiencing depression and high levels of anxiety to look for holistic health care practitioners and peruse other options that are natural and safe.

There are so many medications for anxiety and depression that you may feel overwhelmed and a bit worried.  What should you take?  What are the possible side effects? Are there other options?  What if it doesn't work?

Below, we will take a look at some of the most common types of depression and anxiety meds and provide some basic information to get you started. In order for you to know which is the right one for your own situation you need to speak with your doctor, and do more research on your own.

Common Depression Anxiety Meds, Pro’s, Con’s and Side Effects 

Diazepam: This medication is commonly used to treat certain forms of epilepsy, anxiety, panic attacks and agitation as well as insomnia.  Diazepam can be habit forming and has a range of side effects that include weakness, drowsiness, upset stomach, diarrhea, dizziness, depression and impaired coordination and balance. 

Zoloft:  This depression and anxiety med is very potent and should be taken only as directed by a doctor.  It is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder.  It is available in a tablet and in a liquid form.  Your doctor is likely to start you on a lower dose and work up to a more significant one.  It may take some time, up to several weeks, before you see the benefits of this drug and it is not recommended to stop taking it abruptly.

Zoloft has side effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, pain, excessive tiredness, weight changes, dry mouth, sore throat, vaginitis, male sexual dysfunction and problems with sleeping.

Buspirone (BuSpar):  This medication is used to treat anxiety disorders and it comes in a tablet form. It is believed to enhance the activity of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter involved in regulating anxiety and mood. It is not habit-forming but have some side effects such as headaches, nausea, nervousness, excitability and dizziness.

Xanax:  It is used to treat anxiety that is caused by everyday stress.  It may be habit forming and should be used only according to the doctor’s directions.  There are many types of this medication and you should follow your doctor’s advice as to what to take.  Some side effects include confusion, irregular heartbeat, memory problems, agitation, disorientation and delusions.

Prozac:  Prozac is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bulimia nervosa. Usually at lower doses it is used to treat various anxiety disorders and pre-menstrual syndrome. It can be habit forming.  The most common side effects of Prozac include loss of sexual interest, restlessness skin rash/itching, fevers, chills, pain in the joints or muscles, convulsions and irregular heartbeat.

Effexor:  It is commonly used to treat certain types of anxiety and mental depression.  It is a serious medication that should be taken as directed and not stopped without the doctor’s supervision.  Some of the side effects include vision problems, headaches, chest pain, irregular heartbeats and mood changes.

Why Understanding Depression and Anxiety Meds is Crucial?

Simlpy because these are quite serious medications that can have many side effects. If you decide this is the route for you to take please do your homework first and keep in mind that they should be taken according to your doctor's directions, and never stopped abruptly.

If your doctor agrees that you try a more natural remedy (this will more likely depend on the level of anxiety and/or depression you are experiencing and, how open-minded he or she is), you may want to learn about natural cures for anxiety that have shown to be effective and safe. You will see that there are many natural alternatives available that are worth considering.