Most students don't need anti-depressants

Question: We are trying to give our daughter the skills to handle college stresses without resorting to SSRI-type drugs. There must be natural ways that she can remain calm in stressful situations without resorting to a medicine like Paxil or Zoloft.

I read your article on anti-depressants and suicide. As a parent, this concerns me. Please let me know your thoughts.

Answer: Although college life can be stressful at times, most students manage to get through pressures like final exams without anti-depressant medications. Some people actually find that SSRI drugs like Prozac and Paxil make them more rather than less anxious.

Social support from friends can be extremely helpful. Regular physical activity, whether it is running or yoga, can also be a valuable way to handle stress. Most colleges have counseling for students who feel overwhelmed.

For a person who is seriously depressed, an anti-depressant such as Celexa, Effexor, Paxil, Prozac or Zoloft can be a lifesaver. But the patient and her friends or family should be alert for unusual reactions that might put her at risk of suicide on such a medicine.

We are sending you our Guides to Anti-depressant Pros & Cons and Psychological Side Effects for more details on these medications. Anyone who would like copies, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. MX-23, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Question: Have you ever heard of having a black tongue? If so, could you tell me what causes this and what can be done to correct it?

Answer: Have you been taking Pepto-Bismol? This familiar stomach medicine contains bismuth subsalicylate. It can turn the tongue black. Brushing the tongue should make it disappear, but if it persists you should show it to your doctor.

Question: Some time ago my psoriasis flared up severely after I started taking atenolol for high blood pressure. The dermatologist found that atenolol was the cause. People with psoriasis should be careful with this kind of medicine because it might not agree with them.

My primary-care doctor put me on a different blood pressure medicine, and I am pleased to report the psoriasis is clearing up.