Comments for Consumers

This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.

Australian Prescriber is unable to comment on individual cases or give second opinions.

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Australian Prescriber Vol. 28 No. 4 2005

Other uses for antidepressants

Antidepressants may be needed to treat depression. They are also sometimes useful in other illnesses.

A few people who have severe anxiety need a medicine to help them cope. Tranquillisers (for example valium) are no longer in favour as people can become addicted to them. Antidepressants can sometimes help these patients. Anxiety disorders which may respond to antidepressants include panic, social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Some patients with eating disorders, such as bulimia, may be helped by antidepressant medicines. Antidepressants however are not useful for anorexia nervosa.

Women with a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder have extreme changes in mood before a period. Several treatments, including certain antidepressants, may help reduce their symptoms.