Medicines and Other Substances That Can Cause Symptoms of Depression
Many medicines and other substances can cause changes in
how we feel. Medicines that can cause symptoms of
Antihypertensives, such as clonidine
Barbiturates, such as pentobarbital
(Nembutal), phenobarbital, and secobarbital (Seconal).
Benzodiazepines, such as
alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), or lorazepam
Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone.
medicines, such as birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and hormone
therapy used to treat the symptoms of menopause.
Isotretinoin (Claravis), the acne medicine.
Medicines used to treat Parkinson's disease or other neurological
disorders, such as restless legs syndrome.
Medicines used to treat
seizures, such as phenytoin (Dilantin).
Pain medicines, such as
codeine or morphine.
Symptoms of depression can also be caused by the use of or
withdrawal from alcohol and illegal drugs, such as cocaine, amphetamines
(methamphetamines, crystal meth, or crack), heroin, and cannabis
If you think that your feelings of depression may be
caused by a medicine:
Call the doctor who prescribed the
medicine, to find out whether you should stop taking it or take a different
If you are taking a nonprescription medicine, stop taking it.
Call your doctor if you feel you need to continue taking the
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.