 |
 |
>I know there has been discussion of PD and depression >but I am afraid that up to now I haven't paid much >attention to it. Now I have reason to be concerned >because of a family member with PD who is told that >she is suffering from depression. >Obviously PD and its accompanying problems are a >significant reason to become depressed. But >here is my question. PD affects brain chemistry-- >does PD also chemically cause depression? >What drugs are typically prescribed for this >type of depression? Prozac? Or other drugs? >Thanks. >Bryce Jones > >Bryce - I myself came extremely close to being at a point this past summer where anti-depressants were to be subscribed - in speaking with a neurologist at Emory University in Atlanta - the drug prescribed it TYPICALLY whatever the doctor is familar and comfortable with - this response to my question WHAT DRUG seemed a bit vague. But it does make sense - not all doctors are knowledgeable on all available drugs - take the feedback you receive from this group and if a particular drug is not mentioned by your family member's doctor - ASK! As I have read from previous messages, we really need to take the initiative when seeing our doctors - something I am not good at. As to the cause of depression - it was also explained to me that life events can obviously cause depression. When depression cannot be explained - then one can look to chemical changes in the brain. Sorry my memory is going on me here - but I think since the dopamine levels are off - other areas become over-productive - therefore getting things out of balance. I also think there has been some work in how serotonin is affected with PD. Kind of iffy information - but thought I would at least respond. Take care, Christine Anne Sutter [log in to unmask] Hilton Head Island, SC, USA