Antidepressants are believed to increase certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which may be reduced in those with depression. There are several different classes of depression medications, including: 

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), like Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro
• Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Cymbalta and  Effexor
• Tricyclic and Tetracyclic Antidepressants, like Elavil and Ludiomil
• Atypical Antidepressants, including Desyrel and Wellbutrin
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), such as Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) Antagonist, like Spravato [nasal spray]
• Neuroactive Steroid Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-A Receptor Positive Modulator, like Zulresso, an intravenous infusion

The type of medication prescribed will depend on your symptoms, health history, and how you’ve responded to treatment in the past. 

What Health Insurances Cover Depression Medication? 

Most health insurance plans offer coverage for mental health services, including medications for depression. This is thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which is a federal law that requires mental health benefits to be comparable to medical and surgical benefits. 

For example, if your plan includes a $15 copay for a regular doctor’s visit, it can’t charge you $50 for a psychiatric visit. However, the exact amount you’ll pay still depends on your plan’s details. 

Private Insurance

Most private health insurance plans cover depression medication, but as mentioned before, coverage depends on your provider, plan tier, and sometimes your geographic location. Your insurer will have a list of covered drugs called a formulary that outlines which medications are covered, which pharmacies are in-network, and whether you’ll need prior authorization. Some plans may also offer mail-order options or lower cost prescriptions for 90-day supplies, depending on the drug. 

Medicaid and Medicare

Medicaid often includes mental health benefits that offer coverage for antidepressants with little to no out-of-pocket cost. Coverage varies by state, so it’s important to review your specific plan. 

Medicare works a little differently: 

• Part B covers outpatient mental health services and certain medications, like some injections. 
• Part D covers prescription drugs, including common depression medications. After meeting your deductible, you may still be responsible for a percentage of the drug cost. 

While Medicare offers mental health coverage, it’s not subject to the federal parity law. This means limitations may be different from other plans.