One drug that is very commonly used for depression is Prozac (by Eli Lilly), which contains an "inhibitor" called fluoxetine; another inhibitor is called "phenelzine" and its commercial antidepressant drug is Nardil (by Parke-Davis drug company), which falls under the category of "Monoamine oxidase inhibitor" (MAOI) (Friedlander, p. 632). The problem with some of these medications, like MAOI for example, is they may cause "dizziness… hypotension, insomnia, central nervous system stimulation, weight gain and edema" in some patients (Friedlander, p. 632). And those MDD patients that are taking a MAOI drug should avoid beer, cheese, red wine and "aged meats" because in some cases those foods and drinks mixed with an MAOI medication can cause "blood levels to rise, and, on occasion, bring about a fatal hypertensive crisis," Friedlander continues on page 632.

The authors suggest that along with antidepressants, patients with MDD should also undergo "Cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy" (p. 632) in order to be sure they are doing all they can to become healthy again.

Also, patients with MDD are "at high risk of developing rampant dental decay because of a disinterest in performing oral hygiene practices," along with a preference for "intense sweets" because of a loss of "taste perception" (Friedlander, p. 634).
Conclusion: This article has a wealth of good information about depression, the treatments for depression, and why depressed patients tend to have serious dental problems. Anyone who is planning on going into dental work, or thinking about a career in psychology -- or just interested in serious healthcare issues -- would benefit from this article.

Works Cited

Friedlander, Arthur H., and Mahler, Michael E. "Major Depressive Disorder: Psychopathology,

Medical Management and Dental Implications." The Journal of The American Dental

Association.…