Non-Drug Alternatives in Depression Treatment

Non-Drug Alternatives in Depression Treatment

Seeking Alternatives to Drugs for Depression

By LINDA MARSA Los Angeles Times July 30, 2002

Anti-depressants are now taken by tens of millions of Americans, and many people credit them with changing, or even saving, their lives. But they're not for everyone.

The most-prescribed medications, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft, have a host of potential side effects, including loss of libido, insomnia, restlessness, weight gain, headaches and anxiety. Little is known about the effects of long-term use. Furthermore, the drugs can be prohibitively expensive for people without health insurance. The lowest dosage of Paxil, for instance, costs about $70 for a 30-day supply.

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posted by Robert Heard at 10:05 AM