Hello, in this article, we will explore the best antidepressants list A to Z prescribed by doctors to overcome this common mental illness that causes various symptoms affecting mental, psychological, physical, and behavioral health.
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| Best antidepressant list A to Z |
Most commonly prescribed antidepressants
Antidepressants are a class of medications used to treat depression, a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and a lack of motivation or pleasure. These medications work by influencing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. By regulating the balance of these chemicals, antidepressants help improve mood, reduce depressive symptoms, and promote a sense of well-being.
It's important to note that antidepressants are not a cure for depression but rather a valuable tool in managing the condition. They are typically prescribed alongside therapy and other forms of treatment to address the multifaceted nature of depression. Antidepressants may take several weeks or longer to show their full effects, and it's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and continue taking them as directed by a healthcare professional.
While antidepressants can be highly effective, they may also have potential side effects, which can vary depending on the specific medication. These side effects can include nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, changes in appetite, sexual dysfunction, and others. It's important to discuss any concerns or side effects experienced with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action, such as adjusting the dosage or trying a different medication.
Overall, antidepressants play a significant role in the treatment of depression, helping individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. However, it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to find the most appropriate medication and treatment plan, as well as to regularly monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments along the way.
26 Best antidepressant list
1) Fluoxetine: Fluoxetine, commonly known by its brand name Prozac, is an antidepressant medication belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood. Fluoxetine is commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other related conditions.
2) Sertraline: Sertraline, known by the brand name Zoloft, is also an SSRI antidepressant. Like fluoxetine, it works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Sertraline is prescribed for the treatment of depression, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other conditions. It is also used to manage symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
3) Escitalopram: Escitalopram, marketed as Lexapro, is another SSRI antidepressant. It is primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Escitalopram increases serotonin levels in the brain and helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is known for its relatively favorable side effect profile and is well-tolerated by many patients.
4) Hypericum (St. John's Wort): Hypericum, commonly referred to as St. John's Wort, is a herbal supplement used for its potential antidepressant properties. While it is available over the counter, it is important to note that its effectiveness and safety can vary. Some studies suggest that it may be beneficial for mild to moderate depression, but it can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using St. John's Wort.
5) Nortriptyline: Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used primarily for the treatment of depression. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. In addition to depression, nortriptyline is sometimes prescribed for chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain and migraine prevention. It is important to note that TCAs have more potential side effects compared to newer antidepressant classes like SSRIs, and they require careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.
6) Milnacipran hydrochloride: Milnacipran is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used primarily for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and fibromyalgia. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps regulate mood. It is available in the form of oral capsules. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, sweating, insomnia, and dizziness.
7) Maprotiline: Maprotiline is a tetracyclic antidepressant that is primarily used to treat depression. It works by affecting the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Maprotiline is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and dizziness.
8) Clomipramine: Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It works by affecting the levels of serotonin in the brain. Clomipramine is available in tablet and capsule form. Common side effects may include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness, and weight gain.
9) Phenelzine: Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used for the treatment of depression. It works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Phenelzine is available in tablet form. Due to its interactions with certain foods and medications, it requires dietary restrictions and careful monitoring. Common side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction.
10) Venlafaxine: Venlafaxine is an SNRI used to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and panic disorder. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Venlafaxine is available in tablet and extended-release capsule forms. Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, and sweating.
11) Desvenlafaxine: Desvenlafaxine is an SNRI used for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Desvenlafaxine is available in extended-release tablet form. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, dizziness, insomnia, and sweating.
12) Flupentixol: Flupentixol is a thioxanthene antipsychotic medication that can also be used as an adjunctive treatment for depression. It works by affecting the levels of dopamine in the brain. Flupentixol is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness.
13) Desipramine: Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used for the treatment of depression. It works by affecting the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Desipramine is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness, and weight gain.
14) Reboxetine: Reboxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) used for the treatment of depression. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Reboxetine is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include dry mouth, constipation, increased heart rate, dizziness, and headache.
15) Duloxetine: Duloxetine is an SNRI used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and certain types of chronic pain such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Duloxetine is available in delayed-release capsule form. Common side effects may include nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness.
16) Doxepin: Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It works by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Doxepin is available in tablet and capsule forms. It may also be used topically for the treatment of skin conditions. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and weight gain.
17) Trazodone: Trazodone is an antidepressant medication primarily used for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It also has sedative properties, making it useful for the treatment of insomnia. Trazodone works by affecting the levels of serotonin in the brain. It is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
18) Bupropion: Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that is used for the treatment of depression and as a smoking cessation aid. It works by affecting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Bupropion is available in immediate-release and extended-release tablet forms. Common side effects may include insomnia, dry mouth, headache, agitation, and nausea.
19) Paroxetine: Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for the treatment of depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and certain other conditions. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Paroxetine is available in tablet and suspension forms. Common side effects may include nausea, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, weight changes, and sweating.
20) Amitriptyline: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used for the treatment of depression, neuropathic pain, and migraine prevention. It works by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Amitriptyline is available in tablet and oral solution forms. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and weight gain.
21) Imipramine hydrochloride: Imipramine hydrochloride is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used for the treatment of depression and enuresis (bedwetting) in children. It works by affecting the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Imipramine hydrochloride is available in tablet and capsule forms. Common side effects may include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness, and weight gain.
22) Nefazodone: Nefazodone is an atypical antidepressant that was primarily used for the treatment of major depressive disorder. However, it is less commonly prescribed today due to concerns regarding rare but serious liver toxicity. Nefazodone works by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It is available in tablet form. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and nausea.
23) Mirtazapine: Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that is used for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and also by blocking certain serotonin receptors. Mirtazapine is known to have sedating properties and can be useful for individuals who experience insomnia. It is available in tablet and orally disintegrating tablet forms. Common side effects may include drowsiness, increased appetite, weight gain, dry mouth, and dizziness.
24) Fluvoxamine: Fluvoxamine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder, and other anxiety disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Fluvoxamine is available in tablet and capsule forms. Common side effects may include nausea, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, headache, and drowsiness.
25) Citalopram: Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for the treatment of depression and various anxiety disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Citalopram is available in tablet and oral solution forms. Common side effects may include nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.
26) Zuclopenthixol: Zuclopenthixol is an antipsychotic medication that can also be used as an adjunctive treatment for depression. It works by affecting the levels of dopamine in the brain. Zuclopenthixol is available in tablet and injection forms. Common side effects may include drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, constipation, and movement disorders.
