Suggest Medication For Depression, Restless Leg Syndrome And Sleeplessness

Posted on Thu, 4 Jun 2015

Question: Off Brintellex for about a month, after Paxil quit working. I still have to take Lorazipan and Seroquel to sleep, and another for 'restless leg syndrome'. I feel like I'm in a fog in the day time, and deeply depressed. Is there anything OTC or Homeopathic you can suggest? I've taken so many anti-depressants over the last couple of decades with 'great for awhile', to marginal results, that I would like to explore another route.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
some homeopathic and ayurvedic medicines are there

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.I can understand your concern.Sorry for delayed response.

There are some homeopathic medicines used in treatment of depression.Ignatia XXXXXXX Aconite, XXXXXXX Phos, Aurum Metallicum, Coffea cruda are some homeopathic medicines used in treatment of depression. You need to consult homeopathic doctor to use suitable medicine for you.

Other option is ayurvedic medicines. In this ashwgandha, brahmi and shnakhpushpi are leading herbs. They may available OTC in ayurvedic store.

However no scientific evidence based studies have been there for effectiveness of homeopathic or ayurvedic medicines in depression.Only clinician doing the practice of the same can give best judgement.

I am not using these medicines but I am aware about use of the same in depression through some professional colleagues.

One OTC product 5-HTP is an amino acid precursor of serotonin and tryptophan and used in depression. It should also be used under doctor's guidance.

Regular enough sleep, timely healthy meals and daily exercise are routine measures to prevent the depression from worsening.

Other approach is psychotherapy. Cognitive behavior therapy(CBT) can help.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further.

Regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar