Antidepressants - Reactions with Other Drugs or Substances

Reactions with Other Drugs or Substances

Anyone prescribed an antidepressant should consult with a physician before taking any other drug, including over-the-counter medications. Patients taking MAOIs must avoid certain foods such as aged meats, cheeses, and pickles because they contain tyramine, which can cause harmful reactions when combined with MAOIs. These foods should not be consumed until well after a person stops taking the drug.

It is important to know that the effects of alcohol are greatly increased when combined with antidepressants. In addition, combining large amounts of caffeine with antidepressants may intensify the jitters and agitation that sometimes accompany depression.

The reactions of recreational drugsUsing a drug solely to achieve a high, not to treat a medical condition. with antidepressants are unpredictable and possibly very dangerous. The symptoms of depression are often intensified by illicitUnlawful. drug use. To help avoid problems, it is important that patients taking antidepressants stick to their prescribed dosage and stay away from other drugs, unless prescribed by a physician. In addition, the effectiveness of a drug can only be measured when the prescription is followed accurately.