Learning library
Anxiety and depression
Types of Depression Medication (Antidepressants) and Treatment Options

Types of Depression Medication (Antidepressants) and Treatment Options

We answer your FAQs: what medications do doctors generally prescribe for depression? Find out about it in this page from Confidant Health.

Types of Depression Medication

Antidepressants help relieve symptoms of clinical depression and related conditions, such as social anxiety disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). 

These medications work by adjusting chemical imbalances in the brain, addressing the underlying factors that contribute to mood disturbances and affective disorders.

When considering antidepressants, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional to find the right option for you, as each medication has its own effects and side effects.

In this guide, we'll delve into the different types of depression medication, their benefits, and key considerations to discuss with your healthcare provider when choosing the best treatment option.

What are Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are widely used to treat a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. People with long-term (chronic) pain may also benefit from antidepressants. 

Atypical antidepressants, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are all part of this category.

The main goal of antidepressants is to reduce the severity of depressive symptoms. Their intended function is to alter brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which have an effect on emotional states. 

How Do Antidepressants Work?

Antidepressants work by adjusting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which affect mood and emotional responses. Specifically, they often target serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, key chemicals involved in mood regulation.

By inhibiting the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, antidepressants increase their availability in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce depression symptoms. 

Various antidepressants have slightly varied effects on these neurotransmitters.

📞
Request an Enrollment Call

Our team will call you to answer any questions you have or to help you schedule an appointment.

Request an enrollment call

What are the Different Types of Antidepressants?

Different medications affect brain chemistry in various ways, too. There is no way of testing for or knowing how a drug will affect you. Below are the different types of antidepressants:

Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are one of the two most commonly prescribed antidepressants. SNRIs treat mood disorders and major depressive disorder (MDD), as well as a variety of other conditions related to a chemical imbalance such as:

  • Anxiety disorders including social anxiety
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Likewise, SNRIs can be used to treat chronic pain disorders such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. Once metabolized by your body, SNRIs impact levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. These are two of your brain’s neurotransmitters that play a large role in helping to stabilize mood.

Common medications that are SNRIs include:

  • Desvenlafaxine, such as Pristiq
  • Venlafaxine, such as Effexor
  • Duloxetine, such as Cymbalta

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) 

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are also mostly used in depression treatment. SSRIs work to block the reuptake of serotonin, which allows for a higher concentration of the neurotransmitter to remain in the body. 

An increase in serotonin makes it easier for neurotransmitters to send and receive messages, which can result in stable and more positive moods. SSRIs are “selective” due to their ability to affect only serotonin and not other neurotransmitters. 

Common medications that are SSRIs include:

  • Fluoxetine, such as Prozac or Sarafem
  • Sertraline, such as Zoloft 
  • Citalopram, such as Celexa
  • Paroxetine, such as Paxil
  • Escitalopram, such as Lexapro
  • Fluvoxamine, such as Luvox

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs treat depression and anxiety disorders as well as chronic pain and fibromyalgia. The name comes from their chemical structure, which features three cylindrical rings. 

Tricyclic antidepressants often lack the cognitive side effects of SSRIs and SNRIs, though they do feature physical side effects, including:

  • Trouble sleeping 
  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Weight loss
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia
  • Seizures

Common medications that are SSRIs include:

  • Amoxapine-clomipramine, such as Anafranil
  • Doxepin, such as Sinequan
  • Amitriptyline, such as Elavil
  • Nortriptyline, such as Pamelor
  • Trimipramine, such as Surmontil
  • Desipramine, such as Norpramin
  • Imipramine, such as Tofranil 
  • Protriptyline, such as Vivactil

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) 

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, are one of the oldest types of antidepressants. They suppress the action of monoamine oxidase, a brain enzyme that breaks down helpful neurotransmitters like serotonin, allowing more to circulate—thus stabilizing moods and decreasing anxiety. 

Before SSRIs and SNRIs came on the market, MAOIs were the go-to antidepressant. Today, they are typically only prescribed if a previous inhibitor has not worked. MAOIs may interact with some foods and medication, leading to side effects like:

  • Nausea
  • Seizures
  • Blurred vision
  • Weight loss or weight gain
  • Diarrhea and constipation
  • Insomnia or drowsiness
  • Headache and dizziness
  • Fainting or feeling faint when standing up

Common medications that are MAOIs include:

  • Isocarboxazid, such as Marplan
  • Tranylcypromine, such as Parnate
  • Phenelzine, such as Nardil
  • Selegiline, such as EMSAM or Eldepryl

Noradrenaline and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants (NASSAs) 

Noradrenaline and specific serotonergic antidepressants, abbreviated as NASSA, are used to treat depressive, anxiety, and personality disorders. Much like the above medications, NASSAs target neurotransmitters such as serotonin to balance mood. NASSAs generally appear to have slightly fewer side effects, though there may still be some. 

Common side effects of NASSAs include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Weight gain
  • Constipation
  • Blurred vision 
  • Drowsiness and dizziness

Common medications that are MAOIs include:

  • Mianserin, such as Tolvon
  • Mirtazapine, such as Remeron, Avanza, or Zispin
🗓️
Book with Confidant

Book with a vetted Confidant Health provider

Book appointment

Are Antidepressants Safe?

While antidepressants may not pose a particularly high danger, nothing pharmaceutical is risk-free. When using antidepressants, particularly in the beginning or after a dosage adjustment, suicide ideation may worsen in certain young people (those under the age of 25)

Changes in behavior are also possible, as antidepressants work by influencing neurotransmitters. Furthermore, side effects are prevalent and may last for as long as two weeks.

Read More: Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Antidepressants

Side Effects of Antidepressant Medication

Antidepressants can cause a range of side effects, which vary depending on the type of medication and individual responses. Here are some common side effects associated with antidepressant medications:

  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are common, especially in the early stages of treatment.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Some people may experience insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
  • Sexual Dysfunction: Reduced sexual desire, difficulties with arousal, and problems achieving orgasm can occur.
  • Weight Changes: Weight gain or loss can be a side effect of some antidepressants.
  • Mood Swings: Some individuals may experience emotional blunting or heightened feelings of depression or anxiety initially.
  • Headaches and Dizziness: These are often temporary and may decrease over time.
  • Dry Mouth and Sweating: These symptoms can be persistent and bothersome.

It's important to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider, as they can often adjust the treatment plan or suggest ways to manage side effects effectively.

Other Treatment Options for Depression

Patients diagnosed with depression are also advised to consider specific therapy alternatives in addition to medication. Below are a few examples:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative and distorted thinking patterns. By focusing on these thoughts and the behaviors they influence, CBT helps patients develop more constructive ways of dealing with their emotions. The therapy is typically structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented, with the therapist and patient working together to understand and shift patterns of thinking and behavior.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

ECT involves the use of electrical currents that are transmitted into the brain in order to influence the function and effect of neurotransmitters. ECT is often reserved for patients who have not shown improvement with medicine, who are unable to take antidepressants due to health concerns, or who pose a significant risk of suicide.

Hospital Treatment

A hospital stay may be necessary for some individuals whose depression is exceptionally severe. If you're unable to take care of yourself or if you pose an imminent threat to yourself or another person, this may be essential. You can stay secure and peaceful with hospital-based psychiatric care until your mood improves.

Learn More About Antidepressants with Confidant Health

Understanding the various types of antidepressants and their potential side effects is crucial for anyone seeking treatment for depression. It's important to work closely with healthcare providers to find the most effective medication and therapy combination for your specific needs. 

If you're looking for convenient access to mental health services, Confidant Health offers online therapy with verified providers. We provide a seamless way to connect you with experienced mental health professionals and receive personalized care right at the comfort of your own home.

Book an appointment today and get support from the best of the best.

This article has been medically reviewed by
Erin Hillers
Erin Hillers
Erin Hillers
Nurse Practitioner

Erin is a Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience in midwifery and women's health. She has spent the past 5 years specializing in the treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Book appointment
👍
Recommended reading
5 minutes
read time
Treating Depression: Options and Approaches to Recovery
5 minutes
read time
Types of Depression Medication (Antidepressants) and Treatment Options
5 minutes
read time
MDD vs PDD: The Difference Between Depression and Dysthymia
5 minutes
read time
Types of Depression: Exploring the Different Forms of the Condition
5 minutes
read time
Substance Use and Depression: Understanding the Connection and Finding Help
5 minutes
read time
What are positive coping strategies for depression?
5 min
read time
Coping with Job Loss: Helpful Strategies to Move Forward
4 minutes
read time
Letting Go of Fear: Techniques for Moving Forward
4m
read time
How to Improve Your Focus: Tips for Better Concentration
5 minutes
read time
Boosting Energy: Simple Strategies for Productivity and Alertness
4 minutes
read time
Overcoming Restlessness: Tips for Finding Calm and Focus
4 minutes
read time
How to Cope with Depression: Proven Strategies for Effective Management
4m
read time
Overcoming Overeating: Practical Tips for Managing Cravings
5 minutes
read time
Coping with Grief and Loss of a Loved One
4 minutes
read time
Quick Mood Boosters: Simple Strategies for Feeling Better
4 minutes
read time
The Physical Effects of Anxiety: Understanding the Impact on Your Body
5 minutes
read time
Fast Asleep: 6 Strategies for Falling Asleep Quickly
3m
read time
Gabapentin for Anxiety: Understanding the Treatment Timeline
5 minutes
read time
CBD Oil for Anxiety: When to Expect Relief
5 minutes
read time
Boosting Your Appetite: Tips for Eating When You Have No Appetite
4 minutes
read time
Managing Worries: Strategies for Coping with Anxiety and Stress
5 minutes
read time
Understanding the Difference Between Anxiety Attack and Panic Attack
4 minutes
read time
Identifying the Root Cause of Anxiety: Underlying Factors
5 minutes
read time
Coping with Sadness: Things to Do When You're Feeling Down
4 minutes
read time
Holiday Relaxation: Tips for Unwinding at Home
4 minutes
read time
Can't Sit Still? Tips for Calming Restlessness
5 minutes
read time
Finding Pleasure in Life: Tips for Increasing Joy and Satisfaction
4 minutes
read time
Types of Anxiety Medications: Understanding Your Treatment Options
4 minutes
read time
Types of Anxiety: Understanding the Different Forms of the Condition
4 minutes
read time
Coping with Anxiety: Negative Strategies to Avoid
4 minutes
read time
What is Anxiety? Understanding the Symptoms and Treatments
6 minutes
read time
Exploring the Connection Between Anxiety and Substance Abuse
4 minutes
read time
Zoom Fatigue: Understanding the Causes and Coping Strategies
5 minutes
read time
Building Resilience: Tips for Strengthening Your Mindset
5 minutes
read time
Understanding the Effects of Depression on the Mind and Body
5 minutes
read time
Coping with Depression: Unhealthy Strategies to Avoid
5 minutes
read time
What Causes Depression? Understanding the Triggers and Risks
5 minutes
read time
What is Depression? Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Confidant mobile app screens

Get immediate access to the care you need today

Scan the QR code below to download the app. We'll help you to get immediate access to the care that your need.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
Scan this QR code to download the app
QR code to download the app
Trusted by 5000+ members