Medication can be a beneficial tool in managing depression. It can help to restore balance with emotional and mental struggles that feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with long-standing symptoms or are newly diagnosed, finding the right medication for depression can offer the support you need to improve your mood and overall well-being.
Depression medication, or antidepressants, is a type of prescription drug that is used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. These medications are often prescribed after a diagnosis of depression and can be used alone or alongside talk therapy, depending on the patient’s needs. While primarily used for treating depression, antidepressants are also FDA-approved for other conditions, including:
These medications work by helping to balance the brain’s chemistry, improving mood, and alleviating the symptoms of depression.
Recent research from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has developed a new understanding of how antidepressants treat major depressive disorder (MDD). Here’s how they work:
Depression medications can be highly effective, but their success varies from person to person. One of the challenges with treating depression is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all-solution. When a doctor prescribes an antidepressant, they will often choose one that has been shown to work for many other people and is generally well-tolerated. However, this process can sometimes take time, and it’s not unusual for someone to try multiple drugs before discovering which one works best for them.
The effectiveness of antidepressants is also tied to the severity of the depression. Studies show that those with moderate to severe depression tend to benefit the most from these medications. On the other hand, those with a milder form of depression may benefit more from therapy or lifestyle changes as depression medications may not have as great of an impact on them.
Specifically, in studies involving people with moderate to severe depression, about 30% of individuals who took a placebo experienced some improvement in their symptoms within six to eight weeks. In comparison, around 50% of those taking antidepressants saw similar improvements in the same timeframe.
When it comes to treating depression, there are many different types of medications that doctors may prescribe. Let’s take a look at the main categories of antidepressants and how they work to regulate mood, energy, and emotions.
SSRIs are one of the most commonly prescribed types of antidepressants and are typically the first treatment option for depression and other psychiatric conditions. This is due to their safety, effectiveness, and relatively mild side effects.
These medications work by increasing serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, and emotions but blocking it reuptake in the brain. This helps improve communication between brain cells, which in turn helps to stabilize mood.
Common SSRIs include:
SNRIs work by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. These neurotransmitters help regulate mood and energy levels, which makes SNRIs effective for depression that also involves fatigue and concentration issues.
Serotonin helps with emotional well-being, social behavior, and regulating sleep. Norepinephrine is involved in alertness and focus, helping the brain stay sharp and ready for action.
Common SNRIs include:
SNRIs are often prescribed when SSRIs are not enough to manage symptoms, especially when energy and focus need improvement.
TCAs and MAOIs are older classes of antidepressants that were commonly used before newer medications like SSRIs became available. Although effective, they come with more side effects and risks.
TCAs work by affecting multiple neurotransmitters but can lead to more side effects, and overdose risks are higher compared to SSRIs. Common TCAs include Amitriptyline (Elavil) and Imipramine (Tofranil).
On the other hand, MAOIs prevent the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters but require dietary restrictions to avoid dangerous interactions with certain foods. Common MAOIs include Phenelzine (Nardil) and Tranylcypromine (Parnate).
Atypical antidepressants don’t fit into other categories because they work in different ways. They are often prescribed when patients don’t respond well to other medications. Common medications include:
Starting an antidepressant often comes with side effects, particularly in the first few weeks. These side effects can differ depending on the type of medication, but several are commonly experienced by many people. Here’s a breakdown of some typical side effects you may encounter:
Stopping an antidepressant abruptly or significantly reducing the dose too quickly can lead to something called Antidepressant Continuation Syndrome. This condition affects about 20% of people who stop their medication after taking it consistently for at least one month. Symptoms usually appear within two to four days of stopping the medication and can last anywhere from a week to a few months, though they are typically mild.
Common symptoms include:
An easy way to remember these symptoms is by the mnemonic FINISH:
To minimize the risk of discontinuation syndrome, it’s best to taper off antidepressants gradually under the guidance of your doctor rather than stopping cold turkey.
Depression can manifest in many different ways, and recognizing the signs early can help you find the right treatment for you. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it might be time to consider whether medication could help:
If you identify with some of these signs, it may be time to talk with your doctor or a mental health professional about the possibility of trying an antidepressant.
If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your depression, reaching out to a healthcare provider is a great place to start. They can help assess your symptoms, explore different treatment options like therapy or medication, and create a plan that is unique to you and your needs. Your mental health matters. Start your journey to feeling better by contacting us today.
CU Anschutz Researchers Offer New Understanding of How Antidepressants Work – CU Anschutz
Depression: Learn More – How effective are antidepressants? – InformedHealth.org
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors – StatPearls
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors – Drugs.com
Not Obsolete: Continuing Roles for TCAs and MAOIs – Psychiatric Times
What are some common side effects of antidepressants? – Drugs.com
Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome – Canadian Medical Association Journal
What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)? – American Psychiatric Association
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Join our newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases.
By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our company.
Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
