Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a vital class of medications used to treat depression, anxiety, and related disorders. Each medication works differently, targeting neurotransmitters in the brain to improve mood and mental balance. Choosing the right drug depends on the patient's condition, history, and reaction to treatment.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic often used as an adjunct in depression treatment. It helps balance dopamine and serotonin. It’s known for fewer side effects compared to older antipsychotics but may cause restlessness or weight gain.

Bupropion SR is a sustained-release formulation. It works mainly on dopamine and norepinephrine systems. Unlike many antidepressants, it does not cause sexual dysfunction or weight gain. It’s also used for smoking cessation but should be used with caution in patients with seizure risk.

Celexa (citalopram) is an SSRI that increases serotonin levels. It is well-tolerated with mild side effects like nausea or headache. It’s used for depression and anxiety disorders but requires monitoring of heart rhythm at high doses.

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is an SNRI, acting on serotonin and norepinephrine. It treats depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and nerve pain. Patients may experience dry mouth, fatigue, or dizziness at the start of therapy.

Desyrel (trazodone) is often prescribed for depression with insomnia. It acts on serotonin but also has sedative properties. Common side effects include drowsiness and dizziness.

Effexor and Effexor XR (venlafaxine) are SNRIs that target serotonin and norepinephrine. The XR form allows once-daily dosing. They are effective for major depressive disorder and anxiety but can cause high blood pressure in some patients.

Elavil (amitriptyline) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It is effective but has more side effects like dry mouth, weight gain, and sedation. It is also used for chronic pain and migraines.

Endep is another TCA similar to amitriptyline, used for depression and pain. It is sedating and may cause anticholinergic effects, such as blurry vision and constipation.

Eskalith (lithium carbonate) is not a classic antidepressant but a mood stabilizer often used in bipolar disorder to reduce depressive episodes. It requires blood level monitoring to avoid toxicity.

Geodon (ziprasidone) is an atypical antipsychotic used adjunctively in depression, especially in bipolar depression. It can cause QT prolongation, so heart exams are recommended before use.

Lexapro (escitalopram) is an SSRI considered one of the most effective and well-tolerated. It improves mood and anxiety symptoms with fewer side effects than some older SSRIs.

Luvox (fluvoxamine) is an SSRI used mainly for obsessive-compulsive disorder but also depression. It might cause nausea and insomnia early in treatment.

Nortriptyline is a secondary amine TCA with a somewhat better side effect profile than amitriptyline. It helps with depression and chronic pain but still causes dry mouth and dizziness.

Pamelor (nortriptyline) shares properties with nortriptyline, treating depression and nerve pain. It’s used when SSRIs are not effective or tolerated.

Paxil (paroxetine) is an SSRI that treats depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It is effective but has a higher risk of withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

Paxil CR is the controlled-release form of paroxetine. It allows for once-daily dosing and may reduce side effects like nausea.

Remeron (mirtazapine) increases both norepinephrine and serotonin. It is often chosen for depressed patients with insomnia or appetite loss. Weight gain and sedation are common.

Risnia is less commonly known but may refer to medications similar to atypical antipsychotics used adjunctively in depression.

Risperdal (risperidone) is an atypical antipsychotic used alongside antidepressants to manage resistant depression. Side effects can include weight gain and movement disorders.

Seroquel (quetiapine) is another atypical antipsychotic used as adjunct therapy. It improves mood and sleep but may cause sedation and metabolic changes.

Sinequan (doxepin) is a TCA with strong sedative effects, often used for depression with insomnia. Anticholinergic side effects are common.

Tofranil (imipramine) is a TCA used for depression and sometimes panic disorder or chronic pain. Side effects can include dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness.

Venlor (venlafaxine) is another name for Effexor. It remains popular due to its dual serotonin-norepinephrine action.

Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Wellbutrin SR are used for depression and smoking cessation, focusing on dopamine and norepinephrine. They have activating effects and low risk of sexual side effects.

Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic used adjunctively in depression and bipolar disorder. Weight gain and metabolic syndrome are significant concerns.

In conclusion, antidepressants vary greatly. SSRIs like Lexapro and Celexa are usually first-line due to safety and tolerability. SNRIs like Cymbalta and Effexor are preferred when SSRIs are ineffective. TCAs and atypical antipsychotics play important roles in complex or resistant cases. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting or changing medication. Side effects and interactions must be carefully managed to ensure the best outcomes.