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This over-the-counter tablet can blast through your blues in just 2 weeks

​It’s safer than traditional antidepressants, too.

over the counter drug for depression

But many men don’t seek care for it, and traditional antidepressant treatment can come with a host of side effects, including loss of interest in sex, erectile issues, or weight gain.

Now, there may be a new treatment option that can improve your mood without those serious side effects: Magnesium supplements may improve symptoms of mild to moderate depression, new research from the University of Vermont discovered.

Researchers recruited 126 adults with mild to moderate depression.

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Some took 248 milligrams (mg) of magnesium a day for six weeks, while others took a placebo pill.

They discovered that those who took magnesium reported a clinically significant improvement in measures of depression and anxiety.

What’s more, they noticed the effects quickly—an improvement was evident by two weeks.

Plus, the magnesium supplements were well-tolerated. Only one person discontinued treatment due to side effects.

The researchers aren’t sure how magnesium helps with depression, but they do believe the mineral plays a role in the pathways and neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.

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Plus, inflammation plays a role in depression, and magnesium may help tamp that down, too.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression—which, in men, can include things like anger, exhaustion, and recklessness, in addition to a poor mood—you should talk to your doctor.

If he or she thinks you are suffering from depression, you can discuss magnesium as a possible treatment option, especially if you’re worried about side effects of traditional antidepressants.

An added bonus? Magnesium supplements are easily accessible over-the-counter, and won’t break the bank.

One month’s supply will only set you back about $14, the researchers write.

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