Some common medications can cause symptoms of depression or even suicidal thoughts among those taking them. And a lot of users don’t bother to read the lengthy fine print that comes with pharmaceutical packaging these days. Put simply, if you’re feeling down, it might actually be due to your allergy medication.
The list from GoodRx is actually rather surprising. The meds listed include some well known blood pressure medications, proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux and GERD and corticosteroids for asthma and allergies.
- Lopressor (brand name Metoprolol)
- Tenormin (brand name Atenolol)
- Vasotec (brand name Enalapril)
- Accupril (brand name Quinapril)
- Omeprazole (brand name Prilosec)
- Esomeprazole (brand name Nexium)
- Ranitidine (brand name Zantac)
- Famitodine (brand name Pepcid and Pepcid AC)
- Alprazolam (brand name Niravam and Xanax)
- Hydrocodone / Acetaminophen, Lorcet, Zolvit (aka Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, Xodol, Hycet)
- Tramadol (brand name Ultram)
- Montelukast (brand name Singulair)
- Cetirizine (brand name Zyrtec)
It’s a daunting list. Some people are taking more than one of these concurrently.
In many cases, there are alternatives. However, as the article cautions, you should consult a doctor before making any changes.