Primary affective disorder (depression)
About Primary affective disorder (depression)
A mental state or chronic mental disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, loneliness, despair, helplessness, low self-esteem, and self-reproach. Other signs include psychomotor retardation (lack of energy or imitative), agitation, withdrawal from social contact, insomnia, decreased appetite and/or a vegetative state. The symptoms can become severe enough to cause self harm or suicide.Symptoms
Sadness, despair, helplessness, lack of energy, increased sleeping, decreased sleeping, loss of appetite, suicidal thoughts.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. The `Patient Health Questionnaire-9` (PHQ-9) is a 9-question survey that is often used to identify symptoms of depression. Tests to rule out medical causes of the symptoms may be done including: thyroid function tests, electrolytes, or a brain CT scan.Prescription medications
- Fluoxetine
- Imipramine
- Protriptyline
- Bupropion
- Atomoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Desvenlafaxine
- Amoxapine
- Clomipramine
- Trimipramine
- Selegiline
- Doxepin
- Venlafaxine
- Isocarboxazid
- Trazodone
- Nortriptyline
- Sertraline
- Phenelzine
- Amitriptyline
- Mirtazapine
- Duloxetine
- Paroxetine
- Desipramine
- Tranylcypromine
- Citalopram
- Escitalopram
Conventional treatment summary
Antidepressants and psychotherapy are the mainstays of treatment. Psychiatric hospitalizations may be needed for severe symptoms and for those with suicidal thoughts. For patients who fail to respond to medications and psychotherapy electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) may be an option. Any patient who feels life is not worth living needs to seek medical care immediately. Help is available for patients 24 hours a day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889).Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Psychiatry · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Primary affective disorder (depression).