SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are common medications. They fight depression symptoms by decreasing serotonin blockers in the brain. They’re the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants. They come in the form of:
Not only do SSRIs help most patients with depression, but they also cause fewer side effects. Sexual side effects are among the most common in these antidepressants.
SNRIs
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) help improve serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Options include:
Desvenlafaxine and venlafaxine are similar in terms of efficacy. Duloxetine offers the added benefit of pain relief in addition to treating depression.
TCAs
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are often prescribed when SSRIs or other antidepressants don’t work. TCAs can cause constipation, dry mouth, and fatigue. More serious side effects include low blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and seizures. TCAs are available as:
Tetracyclic Antidepressant
One tetracyclic antidepressant, maprotiline, is used for depression and anxiety.
Dopamine Reuptake Blocker
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a mild dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake blocker, used for depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and also smoking cessation.
5-HT2 Receptor Antagonists
Two 5-HT2 receptor antagonists, nefazadone and trazodone, are used to treat depression.
5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists
One 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, vortioxetine (Brintellix), is used to treat depression.
MAOIs
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are older drugs that treat depression by preventing the breakdown of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. They’re more difficult for patients to take than most other antidepressants because they interact with many prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and foods. They have many adverse effects and can’t be combined with other antidepressants or stimulants.
MAOIs are rarely a doctor’s first choice of drug to prescribe.
MAOIs include:
Noradrenergic Antagonist
Mirtazapine (Remeron) is used primarily for depression.
Other Medications
Other depression medications don’t fall into the typical classes. These are called atypical antidepressants. Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe one of these alternatives instead.
