Antidepressant Depression Medications In The United States
Depression affects millions of Americans each year, making day-to-day life difficult for many. Antidepressant depression medications can often play a pivotal role in helping individuals find relief from the symptoms of depression.
At Arbor Wellness, we understand that finding the right antidepressant medication can be a journey in itself.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand antidepressant depression medications and make informed decisions about your mental health care.
Learn more about our mental health treatment programs or call us now at 629-217-2658.
What Are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are prescription mental health medications used to treat depression. Antidepressants help restore balance to neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.Â
Neurotransmitters natural chemicals affect mood, emotion, and behavior. When these chemicals are imbalanced, it can lead to depression symptoms.
Antidepressants work by adjusting how these neurotransmitters function, helping to improve mood and reduce depression symptoms.
While there are many types of antidepressants, there are specific components to each that can best fit the symptoms you may be experiencing, which is often a decision made by medical professionals and doctors after a through evaluation.
Antidepressants can also be used to alleviate associated with other mental health conditions, including:
You are not alone. You deserve to get help.
Arbor Wellness is an industry leader in mental health treatment. Our team of top medical experts specialize in dual diagnosis treatment and are committed to ensuring that each patient is treated as an individual. Call us today, we’re available 24/7.
Types of Antidepressants
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs work by targeting the brain’s serotonin system.
In normal brain function, serotonin is released into the space between nerve cells (synapses) to carry messages, then is reabsorbed back into the sending cell.
SSRIs prevent this reabsorption, keeping more serotonin available in the synapses. This increased serotonin availability helps improve communication between brain cells involved in mood regulation.Â
Common SSRIs include:
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs work on two neurotransmitter systems simultaneously.Â
Like SSRIs, they prevent the reabsorption of serotonin, but they also block the reuptake of norepinephrine.
Norepinephrine plays a key role in attention, energy, and motivation. By increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine in the synapses, SNRIs can help improve both mood and energy levels.Â
Common SNRIs include:
- Venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
Atypical Antidepressants
These medications work through unique mechanisms that differ from traditional antidepressants:
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin) – Wellbutrin blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, improving motivation, pleasure, and energy without affecting serotonin
- Mirtazapine (Remeron) – Remeron works by blocking specific serotonin receptors while enhancing norepinephrine release, which can help with both mood and sleep
- Vortioxetine (Trintellix) – Trintellix combines serotonin reuptake inhibition with modulation of multiple serotonin receptor types, offering benefits for both mood and cognitive function
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
TCAs are an older type of antidepressant. These medications work by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, but they also affect other neurotransmitter systems, which can lead to more side effects.Â
They physically block the reuptake pumps for these neurotransmitters, leading to increased availability in the synapses. Though older, TCAs remain effective for some patients, particularly those with severe depression.
Common TCAs include:
- Amitriptyline
- Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
- Desipramine (Norpramin)
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
MAOIs work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which normally breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.Â
By preventing the breakdown of these neurotransmitters, MAOIs increase their availability in the brain.Â
These medications require careful dietary restrictions because they can interact dangerously with certain foods containing tyramine.
Common MAOIS include:
- Phenelzine (Nardil)
- Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Selegiline (Emsam)
What Is The Most Commonly Prescribed Antidepressant?
Sertraline (Zoloft) is currently the most commonly prescribed antidepressant in the United States.Â
Because of it’s high effectiveness, Zoloft has mild side effects, and is versatile treating both depression and anxiety.Â
SSRIs as a class remain the most frequently prescribed type of antidepressant due to their safety profile and effectiveness.
Side Effects of Antidepressants
When starting antidepressant medication, it’s important to understand that side effects are common but typically temporary.Â
As your body adjusts to the medication over the first few weeks of treatment, many initial side effects gradually decrease or resolve completely. Everyone responds differently to antidepressants, and not everyone will experience side effects.Â
Some people may have no side effects at all, while others might experience several.
The adjustment period usually lasts 2-6 weeks, during which your body adapts to the medication. During this time, it’s essential to maintain open communication with your your psychiatrist or doctor about any side effects you experience. They can help determine if these effects are normal and temporary or if adjustments to your antidepressant if necessary.
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea and digestive issues (usually improving within the first week)
- Sleep changes (insomnia or drowsiness)
- Headaches
- Sexual side effects (such as decreased libido or difficulty with arousal)
- Weight changes (both gain or loss depending on the medication)
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Mild anxiety or jitteriness (especially in the first few days)
Most side effects are mild and improve within the first few weeks of treatment.Â
Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.Â
If you experience any severe reactions, such as significant agitation, severe anxiety, panic attacks, or thoughts of self-harm, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Genetic Testing for Antidepressant Depression Medications
Pharmacogenetic testing represents a significant advancement in personalizing antidepressant treatment, and a form of treatment we utilize at Arbor Wellness.
Genetic testing analyzes specific genes that influence how your body processes and responds to medications, helping to take the guesswork out of medication selection.
The testing specifically examines variations in genes that code for:
- Liver enzymes that metabolize medications (Cytochrome P450 system)
- Neurotransmitter transporters and receptors
- Blood-brain barrier transporters
- Other proteins involved in drug response
These genetic variations can significantly impact how effectively your body processes different medications.Â
For example, some people may be “rapid metabolizers” who process certain medications too quickly, leading to reduced effectiveness, while others may be “poor metabolizers” who process medications too slowly, potentially leading to increased side effects.
By understanding your genetic profile, your healthcare provider can:
- Identify medications that are more likely to work well with your body chemistry
- Avoid medications that might cause adverse reactions
- Adjust dosing based on your metabolism
- Reduce the trial-and-error approach often used in medication selection
- Potentially decrease the time it takes to find an effective medication
Other Treatments for Depression
While antidepressants play a vital role in treating depression, they are not a “cure-all” solution.Â
Depression is a complex condition that often requires a multi-faceted treatment approach.Â
Antidepressants can help relieve symptoms and create a foundation for healing, but lasting recovery typically involves addressing the psychological, social, and lifestyle factors that contribute to depression.
At Arbor Wellness, our mental health experts help you create a comprehensive treatment plan, over utilizing other forms of treatment that may include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured form of psychotherapy that helps you identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors. During CBT sessions, you’ll work with a therapist to recognize distorted thinking, develop practical problem-solving skills, and build effective coping mechanisms.Â
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help you better understand and manage your emotions. Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT has proven highly effective for depression treatment.Â
Support groups provide a unique healing environment where you can connect with others who truly understand your experience. These groups offer a safe space to share your story, learn from others’ experiences, and realize you’re not alone in your journey.Â
Somatic therapy acknowledges the profound connection between your physical body and emotional well-being. This approach helps you address trauma and emotional distress that may be stored in your body through movement, breathing techniques, and physical awareness exercises.
Holistic therapy takes a comprehensive approach to mental health, considering all aspects of your life that might impact your well-being. This method examines how your physical health, nutrition, sleep patterns, exercise habits, spiritual needs, and environmental factors all contribute to your mental health.Â
Additional Evidence-Based Treatments
Several other scientifically-supported treatments can be valuable components of a depression treatment plan. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain, offering a non-invasive option for treatment-resistant depression.Â
Begin Depression Treatment Today
At Arbor Wellness Mental Health Treatment, we offer comprehensive depression treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.Â
Our experienced team can help you navigate antidepressant medication options and find the most effective treatment approach for you.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and begin your journey to better mental health.
Antidepressant FAQs
Alcohol is generally not recommended while taking antidepressants. It can worsen depression symptoms and increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Some antidepressants can cause dangerous reactions when combined with alcohol. Always discuss alcohol use with your healthcare provider.
Learn More: What Happens If You Drink On Antidepressants?
Antidepressants require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. This could be your primary care physician, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional. They will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and other factors to determine if antidepressants are appropriate for your situation.
Several alternatives to antidepressants exist:
- Psychotherapy
- Natural supplements (such as St. John’s Wort, under medical supervision)
- Regular exercise
- Meditation and mindfulness practices
- Light therapy (especially for seasonal depression)
- Acupuncture
- Dietary changes
While both treat mental health conditions, they serve different purposes:
- Antidepressants primarily treat depression and anxiety
- Mood stabilizers treat bipolar disorder and prevent extreme mood swings
- Sometimes they’re used together under careful medical supervision
- Each has distinct side effects and considerations
Watch for these signs that your dosage might need adjustment:
- Return of depression symptoms
- Increased anxiety or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite
- Mood swings
- Loss of interest in activities
- Difficulty concentrating
Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication dosage. Regular check-ups can help ensure your treatment remains effective and appropriate for your needs.
Learn More: Signs Your Antidepressant Dose Is Too Low
Learn More: Why Are My Antidepressants Not Working?
Learn More: The Effects of Taking Antidepressants When You’re Not Depressed
We Work With Most Major Insurance
Did you know most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover most of the costs associated with our program? Click below to find out your coverage and treatment options right now.
