Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression and a variety of other mental health conditions. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions. This category includes many different drugs, each with its own benefits and side effect profiles.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic often used as an add-on treatment for depression. It helps improve mood and motivation. Patients may experience side effects like nausea, dizziness, or weight gain.

Bupron SR (Sustained Release) is a form of bupropion that helps reduce symptoms of depression and boost energy. It has a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants. Common side effects include dry mouth and insomnia.

Celexa (citalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) widely used for depression and anxiety. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood. Possible side effects include fatigue, dry mouth, and nausea.

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It is effective for depression and nerve pain. Patients may feel relief in mood and pain symptoms but can experience dry mouth, dizziness, or sweating.

Desyrel (trazodone) is often prescribed for depression and insomnia. It has sedative effects, which can help with sleep. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision.

Effexor and Effexor XR (venlafaxine) are SNRIs that affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. They are used for major depressive disorder and anxiety. Effexor XR is the extended-release version for smoother dosing. Side effects may include nausea, headache, and increased blood pressure.

Elavil (amitriptyline) is a tricyclic antidepressant often used for depression and chronic pain. It works on several brain neurotransmitters but may cause weight gain, dry mouth, and sedation.

Endep is another brand of amitriptyline with similar uses and effects. It is favored for its effectiveness in resistant depression and pain management.

Eskalith (lithium carbonate) is primarily a mood stabilizer but is important in treating bipolar depression. It requires regular blood monitoring due to potential toxicity. Side effects can be thirst, tremors, and increased urination.

Geodon (ziprasidone) is an atypical antipsychotic used for depression with psychotic features and bipolar disorder. It can aid mood stabilization but may cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Lexapro (escitalopram) is a popular SSRI known for its tolerability and effectiveness. It helps relieve depression and anxiety with fewer side effects like nausea and sleep disturbances.

Luvox (fluvoxamine) is an SSRI often prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder but also effective for depression. Side effects may involve gastrointestinal upset and sleepiness.

Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and nerve pain. It is similar to Elavil but better tolerated by some patients. Side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, and constipation.

Pamelor (nortriptyline hydrochloride) is the same active compound as nortriptyline. It supports mood improvement and pain relief but requires careful dosing to avoid side effects.

Paxil (paroxetine) and Paxil CR are SSRIs that are effective for depression and several anxiety disorders. The controlled-release (CR) form reduces dose-related side effects. Common issues include weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and withdrawal symptoms on stopping.

Remeron (mirtazapine) is a unique antidepressant that enhances noradrenaline and serotonin release. It often boosts appetite and sleep, helpful in some depressive states. Side effects may include weight gain and sedation.

Risnia is less common but belongs to antipsychotics used for mood disorders. It works on dopamine and serotonin receptors and may help in depression with psychotic features.

Risperdal (risperidone) is an antipsychotic also used as an adjunct in depression treatment. It can reduce symptoms but sometimes causes weight gain and metabolic changes.

Seroquel (quetiapine) is an atypical antipsychotic used for depression in bipolar disorder and as an add-on in treatment-resistant depression. It has sedative properties but can lead to weight gain and dizziness.

Sinequan (doxepin) is a tricyclic antidepressant effective for depression and anxiety. It often causes sedation and dry mouth, so it is sometimes used at bedtime.

Tofranil (imipramine) is another tricyclic antidepressant helping with depression and panic disorder. Side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain.

Venlor (venlafaxine) is similar to Effexor, used to treat depression and anxiety. It acts on serotonin and norepinephrine and may cause increased blood pressure.

Wellbutrin and Wellbutrin SR (bupropion) are unique antidepressants that affect dopamine and norepinephrine. They are favored for fewer sexual side effects and as aids in smoking cessation. Common side effects include insomnia and dry mouth.

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an antipsychotic used for bipolar depression and treatment-resistant depression. It is effective but can cause significant weight gain and metabolic issues.

Each antidepressant has unique features and side effects. Choice depends on individual patient needs, medical history, and tolerance. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential before starting any medication in this category.