Depression has been attributed to a chemical imbalance in the brain. Antidepressant medications are prescribed to adjust the levels of chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which affect the delivery of messages between nerves. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the most popular types of antidepressants are Prozac, Celexa, Zoloft, Paxil and Lexapro. Since these medications act on the neurotransmitter serotonin, which influences mood and emotions, they are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Prozac
Prozac was manufactured by Dista Products Company. The active ingredient in Prozac is fluoxetine hydrochloride. According to Prozac.com, this medication was introduced in 1986 and reportedly has been a success in the treatment of millions of people. In addition to depression, Prozac is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa. Common side effects include diarrhea, dry mouth, decreased sex drive, anxiety, sweating and hot flashes.
Celexa
Celexa is manufactured by Forest Laboratories and is approved for the treatment of depression only. The generic form of Celexa is citalopram. Like the other SSRIs, it has a number of side effects. However, some unique side effects of Celexa are abdominal pain, fever, heartburn, painful menstrual cycles, sore throat, vomiting and stuffy or runny nose. It can also have a negative effect on individuals who have diabetes, reduced liver function, bleeding disorders or seizures.
Zoloft
Zoloft is manufactured by Pzifer and has been on the market for more than 15 years. The generic form of Zoloft is setraline. Zoloft is FDA approved for the treatment of depression as well as social anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Obsessive-Compulsive disorder (OCD). Side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, sexual side effects, sleepiness, and nausea.
Paxil
GlaxoSmithKlein is the drug company that makes Paxl. The active ingredient in Paxil is paroxetine. Paxil is FDA approved for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as well as a number of anxiety-based disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and panic disorder. According to the FDA, studies have found that taking Paxil while pregnant can put the fetus at risk for birth defects, particularly heart problems.
Lexapro
Like Celexa, Lexapro is manufactured by Forest Laboratories. The generic form of Lexapro is escitalopram. It may be prescribed to adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 and adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Lexapro is also FDA approved for the treatment of acute Generalized Anxiety Disorders in adults. Clinical studies have revealed the most common side effects to be nausea, insomnia, fatigue, sweating and sexual difficulties.
