If you’re thinking about using antidepressants, it’s a good idea to consider whether you need an energizing or relaxing medication. The most energizing antidepressant will affect you much differently than a sedating one.
Deciding whether you need an energizing antidepressant involves a few key points. Firstly, you’ll have to assess your depression. This is, of course, much safer to do with the assistance of your doctor. Never make changes to your medical regimen without asking or informing your doctor.
Different Types of Depression
Before deciding whether or not you need the most energizing antidepressant in the world, you should assess your depression. Major depressive disorder can come in several forms.
The form of your depression depends on the characteristics and symptoms that you experience. The groups of symptoms can be broken up, broadly, into two groups.
- Symptoms of excess energy, such as anxiety and insomnia.
- Symptoms of depleted energy, such as lethargy, excessive sleep, and low motivation.
As you can imagine, people who struggle with the first group of symptoms aren’t going to need an energizing antidepressant. Instead, they will want to use an antidepressant that is more relaxing or sedating.
If you struggle with symptoms from the second group, however, you may be interested in a more stimulating antidepressant. These medications can help provide energy and motivation so that you can accomplish your daily tasks.
What Is the Most Energizing Antidepressant?
Many antidepressants present different benefits and side effects. Certain antidepressants are more energizing than others.
Here are some common examples of antidepressants of different types.
- Energizing antidepressants include Prozac (fluoxetine) and Wellbutrin (bupropion), both of which are known to stimulate the mind and body.
- Sedating antidepressants include Paxil (paroxetine) and Celexa (citalopram), both of which promote relaxation.
Deciding on the best antidepressant is up to you and your doctor or psychiatrist.
Precautions & Things to Be Aware of
When you start taking a new antidepressant, you should take note of the following:
Side Effects
Many patients experience side effects within the first few days or weeks of using an antidepressant. In many cases, these side effects tend to resolve themselves within a couple of weeks. However, if side effects persist, you may want to ask your doctor to switch you to a different medication.
Drug & Supplement Interactions
Another thing to be cautious about is whether or not your new antidepressant will interact with supplements or drugs you’re already taking.
Your doctor will be able to tell you right away if your medications will interact. They will most likely avoid co-prescribing medications that have adverse interactions. Tell your doctor if you are taking any dietary supplements. They will be able to warn you of any potential interactions.
Conclusion
There are many antidepressants, some of which are more energizing than others. Of these, Prozac and Wellbutrin are considered the most stimulating.
It’s important that you remain aware of your needs, but it’s also important to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential of antidepressant addiction. Groups like Surviving Antidepressants can help you find a way to thrive and survive without using antidepressants.
