Selecting the Right Antidepressant to Reduce Symptoms of Depression

While antidepressants do not cure depression, they can be used to reduce the many symptoms associated with it. For many people, the first antidepressant they try doesn't reduce symptoms instantly and/or can cause bothersome side effects. Fortunately, there are a variety of different antidepressants available and finding one that works for your body may involve persistence, time, and patience, so don't give up right away! 

Here are some things you may consider discussing with your doctor: 

• Your particular symptoms
• Side effects
• Interactions with other medications
• Other health conditions
• Whether you are pregnant or breast feeding 
• Cost and health insurance coverage 
• Whether the antidepressant worked for a close relative 

To read more about the different neurotransmitters that antidepressants act on click this link. Here is a list of common types of antidepressants used to treat depression and their descriptions:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) 

• Many doctors start by prescribing SSRIs due to its low side effects even at higher therapeutic doses. The common SSRIs include Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, Zoloft, and Paxil. 

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) 

• Some examples of SNRIs include Cymbalta, Effexor, Pistiq, and Fetzima.

Atypical Antidepressants

• A list of these atypical antidepressants include Trazadone, Rameron, Trintellix, and Welbutrin. 

Tricyclic Antidepressants

• Common tricyclic antidepressants include Tofranil, Pamelor, and Norpramin. While these antidepressants tend to cause more side effects than the new antidepressants, these are can be an effective alternative to multiple failed antidepressants. 

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) 

• These are typically prescribed last after other medications haven't worked due to their serious side effects. In addition, 

While these antidepressants take time to make an effect, it's important to discuss any side effects and concerns you have while trying new antidepressants. For many instances, antidepressants are most effective when used in conjunction to other treatments including therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

If you would like more information about TMS therapy or would like to speak to a Psychiatrist regarding medication management to discuss the types of antidepressants are right for you, give us a call at (714) 867-7037 or click here to schedule an appointment.  

More information about the different types of antidepressants: https://www.webmd.com/depression/how-different-antidepressants-work