Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a broad category of medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions. There are several classes of antidepressants, and each has unique properties, benefits, and side effects. Below is a review of some popular medications in this category.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic often used as an adjunct to antidepressants. It can help with depression that does not fully respond to other treatments. It may cause side effects such as weight gain, dizziness, or restlessness.

Bupron SR (Wellbutrin SR) is a form of bupropion. It works differently from typical antidepressants and is less likely to cause sexual side effects or weight gain. It can also help with smoking cessation. Some users report insomnia or headaches.

Celexa (citalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders. It may cause nausea, dry mouth, or sexual dysfunction in some patients.

Cymbalta (duloxetine) belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It treats depression and nerve pain. Side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. It is also helpful for generalized anxiety disorder.

Desyrel (trazodone) is often used to treat depression and insomnia due to its sedative effects. It is less likely to cause weight gain but may cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Effexor and Effexor XR (venlafaxine) are SNRIs used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, and panic disorders. Effexor XR is an extended-release version for once-daily dosing. Side effects include increased blood pressure, nausea, and dizziness.

Elavil (amitriptyline) is a tricyclic antidepressant. It is effective but less commonly used due to potential side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness. It is also used for chronic pain and migraines.

Endep (amitriptyline) is the brand name version of Elavil, with the same uses and side effects.

Eskalith (lithium carbonate) is primarily a mood stabilizer but can be used to treat bipolar depression. It requires regular blood tests to monitor levels, as toxicity can occur. Common side effects include increased thirst, tremors, and weight gain.

Geodon (ziprasidone) is an atypical antipsychotic used sometimes as an adjunct in depression treatment resistant to other meds. It may cause drowsiness and requires monitoring for heart-related side effects.

Lexapro (escitalopram) is a highly regarded SSRI with fewer side effects than some other drugs in its class. It treats depression and anxiety, usually causing mild side effects such as nausea and fatigue.

Luvox (fluvoxamine) is an SSRI mainly used for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) but is also prescribed for depression. Side effects can include insomnia and gastrointestinal upset.

Nortriptyline is another tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and sometimes nerve pain. Side effects mirror those of amitriptyline but often with less sedation.

Pamelor (nortriptyline) is the brand form of nortriptyline, with identical uses and side effects.

Paxil and Paxil CR (paroxetine) are SSRIs used for depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. The controlled-release version (Paxil CR) may reduce some side effects. Both may cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or sleep disturbances.

Remeron (mirtazapine) is a tetracyclic antidepressant. It is notable for its sedative properties and ability to increase appetite, which can be helpful for patients struggling with weight loss due to depression.

Risnia is less commonly known but is an atypical antipsychotic sometimes used in resistant depression.

Risperdal (risperidone) is an atypical antipsychotic used as an add-on in treatment-resistant depression. It may cause weight gain, drowsiness, or hormonal changes.

Seroquel (quetiapine) is another atypical antipsychotic utilized for depression adjunct therapy. Side effects include sedation, weight gain, and metabolic changes.

Sinequan (doxepin) is a tricyclic antidepressant often prescribed for depression and sleep disorders. It is sedating and may cause dry mouth and dizziness.

Tofranil (imipramine) is among the older tricyclic antidepressants. It is effective but often avoided due to its side effect profile, including potential heart issues.

Venlor (venlafaxine) is a generic version of Effexor and works as an SNRI with a similar profile of benefits and side effects.

Wellbutrin and Wellbutrin SR (bupropion) are popular atypical antidepressants. They do not usually cause sexual dysfunction and can help with energy and focus. Possible side effects include dry mouth and risk of seizures at high doses.

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic used with antidepressants in treatment-resistant depression. Weight gain and metabolic issues are common side effects.

When choosing an antidepressant, doctors consider the patient's symptoms, medical history, and side effect profiles. Some medications target anxiety as well as depression. Others help with sleep or energy levels. Side effects vary widely, and finding the right medication often requires trial and adjustment. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any antidepressant.