Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Dysthymia

Alternative Names: Neurotic depression (dysthymia); Dysthymic disorder; Chronic depression; Depression - chronic Treatment: As with other forms of depression, there are a number of treatment options for people with dysthymia. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like flouxetine (Prozac) are often used. Talk therapies, such as cognitive/behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, have also been shown to be effective. Text Continues Below There is some evidence to suggest that the combination of both medication and psychotherapy treatments may yield the most improvement. Expectations (prognosis): By definition, dysthymia is a chronic condition lasting many years. Though some people completely recover, others continue to have some symptoms despite treatment. Maintenance medication and therapy may be required. Complications: Antidepressant drugs have a number of side effects that can complicate treatment. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may cause stomach upset, mild insomnia, and reduced sex drive. However, untreated dysthymia can progress into a major depressive episode, a phenomenon known as "double depression." Calling your health care provider: Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you suffer from a persistently depressed mood.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.