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Mental Health (Expert Forum)
are there any oral contraceptives someone with depression take?
Questions posted in the Mental Health forum are being answered by Dr. Roger L. Gould, author of the Mastering Stress and Depression program and affiliated with the UCLA. Department of Psychiatry. Topics covered include anger, attention deficit disorder (ADD) , bipolar disorder , dementia , electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) , learning disabilities, memory, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) , panic , personality disorders, phobias , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , schizophrenia , stress , transitions, and work problems.
are there any oral contraceptives someone with depression take?
by ono666@yahoo.com, Dec 15, 1999 12:00AM
8 years ago i was hospitalized for depression and given prozac which 'cured' it for awhile, but lately ive been feeling depressed, especially around my period, and read that The Pill eased PMS symptoms. i tried Depo Provera once and it made my depression worse and im wondering is there any oral contraceptives that will ease my PMS but wont worsen my depression? i was also wondering is it possible to take antidepressants together with oral contraceptives?
Doctor's Answer
by HFHS MD - RG, Dec 15, 1999 12:00AM
You may be suffering from either a recurrence of your previously diagnosed Major Depression or PMS or currently known as PMDD or PreMenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Both disorders may be treated with antidepressants belonging to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) like Prozac or Zoloft.
The latest information from published literature indicate that you may take the SSRI only during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle. The luteal phase is the period of time(usually 11-14 days) following ovulation. This is provided you have a regular 28 day cycle. If not, this strategy is not recommended.
The SSRI's are relatively safe medication and have minimal or low interactions with other drugs, however, I would suggest informing your doctor that you are taking oral contraceptives before starting any antidepressants.
I suggest a consult with a Psychiatrist for an evaluation.
Both disorders may be treated with antidepressants belonging to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) like Prozac or Zoloft.
The latest information from published literature indicate that you may take the SSRI only during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle. The luteal phase is the period of time(usually 11-14 days) following ovulation. This is provided you have a regular 28 day cycle. If not, this strategy is not recommended.
The SSRI's are relatively safe medication and have minimal or low interactions with other drugs, however, I would suggest informing your doctor that you are taking oral contraceptives before starting any antidepressants.
I suggest a consult with a Psychiatrist for an evaluation.
Member Comments (1)
by Laura, Dec 16, 1999 12:00AM
I have taken the Pill and anti-depressants together for years and have had no adverse effects. I know a lot of women who take both without any negative consequences. Each person is different, of course, but I wouldn't be afraid to try the two together. Also, I think Depo is much more difficult to toelrate than the Pill. As always, talk to your doctor(s) so you get the best, most personalized care. Good luck.
