Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions. There are different classes of antidepressants, each with its own way of working and side effects.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic often used as an add-on treatment for depression. It helps improve mood and energy levels by affecting dopamine and serotonin receptors. It is known for fewer side effects compared to older antipsychotics.

Bupropion SR is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor. It helps reduce depressive symptoms without causing sexual dysfunction, a common side effect of many antidepressants. It is also used to aid smoking cessation.

Celexa is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It increases serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood. Celexa is often prescribed for depression and anxiety but may cause side effects like nausea or drowsiness.

Cymbalta belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) class. It treats depression, anxiety, and nerve pain. Cymbalta helps regulate mood and relieve physical symptoms linked to depression.

Desyrel, or trazodone, is commonly prescribed to treat depression and insomnia. It acts as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor, balancing serotonin to improve mood and sleep quality.

Effexor and Effexor XR are extended-release SNRIs. These medications help elevate mood by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Effexor XR offers a longer-lasting effect with once-daily dosing.

Elavil is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It is effective in treating depression but is less commonly used due to its side effect profile. It may cause dry mouth, weight gain, and drowsiness.

Endep is another name for amitriptyline, also a tricyclic antidepressant. It works by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain. It is sometimes used to treat migraines and chronic pain in addition to depression.

Eskalith is lithium carbonate, mainly used to treat bipolar disorder rather than depression alone. Lithium stabilizes mood and reduces the risk of suicide.

Geodon is an atypical antipsychotic used as part of depression treatment when combined with other medications. It manages mood by affecting dopamine and serotonin levels.

Lexapro is a widely prescribed SSRI. It effectively treats depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro is favored for its mild side effects and tolerability.

Luvox is an SSRI used primarily to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression. It works by increasing serotonin availability in the brain.

Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It is used when patients do not respond well to SSRIs. Nortriptyline is often prescribed for neuropathic pain and migraine prevention.

Pamelor is the brand name for nortriptyline. It shares the same benefits and side effects, helping improve mood and reduce physical symptoms of depression.

Paxil and Paxil CR are SSRIs that effectively treat depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. The controlled-release form allows for steadier blood levels and fewer side effects.

Remeron is a tetracyclic antidepressant. It helps improve mood by increasing norepinephrine and serotonin release. Remeron is also known to improve sleep and appetite.

Risnia is an atypical antipsychotic sometimes used off-label to manage depression symptoms, especially when combined with other antidepressants.

Risperdal (risperidone) is mainly an antipsychotic but is also used as an adjunct for treatment-resistant depression. It works by balancing dopamine and serotonin receptors.

Seroquel (quetiapine) is another atypical antipsychotic used to treat bipolar depression and as an add-on for major depressive disorder. It helps stabilize mood and improve sleep.

Sinequan is a tricyclic antidepressant known as doxepin. It is effective for depression and anxiety with strong sedative properties, making it useful for patients with sleep issues.

Tofranil (imipramine) is one of the older tricyclic antidepressants. It is used for depression and sometimes for bedwetting in children. Side effects like dry mouth and dizziness are common.

Venlor is similar to Effexor as an SNRI. It treats depression and anxiety by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine. Venlor is preferred for its extended-release formula.

Wellbutrin and Wellbutrin SR are brand names for bupropion. These medications are stimulating antidepressants. They are less likely to cause sexual side effects or weight gain.

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is primarily an antipsychotic but is also used in combination with antidepressants for treatment-resistant depression. It works by regulating dopamine and serotonin.

Each antidepressant has its strengths and possible side effects. Doctors choose a specific medicine based on the patient’s symptoms, history, and response to treatment. It is essential to follow prescriptions carefully and report any side effects to a healthcare provider immediately.