According to Medline Plus, more than 20 million people in the United States have ongoing depression. Symptoms of depression can include sadness, reduced or loss of interest in pleasurable activities, reduced energy or severe thoughts such as death or suicide. Medication combined with other therapy, such as talk therapy or counseling, can help manage depression. Antidepressants are a class of medications used to manage symptoms from severe depression.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are usually the first antidepressants prescribed by doctors, according to the Mayo Clinic. SSRIs are safer and have less worrisome side effects than other antidepressant medications. Common SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). One of the more common side effects from this medication is sexual dysfunction, including a decrease in desire. Other side effects, such as insomnia or headaches, may go away in time.
Serotonin and Norephinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
Common serotonin and norephinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) include duloxetine, venlafaxine and desvenlafaxine. These are marketed under the respective brand names Cymbalta, Effexor and Pristiq. They have many of the same side effects as SSRIs. According to the Mayo Clinic, at high doses, these medications can cause dizziness and increased sweating. Duloxetine should not be taken by people with liver disease.
Norephinephrine and Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors
Norephinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) affect depression by increasing available norephinephrine and dopamine and reducing reabsorption back into cells. According to the Mayo Clinic, higher levels of norephinephrine and dopamine can help improve and elevate mood. The generic bupropion is the only Food and Drug Administration approved medication, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is marketed under the brand name Wellbutrin. Unlike other antidepressants, buproprion does not cause any sexual-related side effects. One possible side effect is a potential increase in seizures. NDRIs are not associated with weight gain. Therefore, this medication should not be used in those diagnosed with bulimia or anorexia nervosa.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants are a common class of antidepressants with similar efficacy to many of the new drugs. According to the Mayo Clinic, they are usually not prescribed until after SSRIs have been used and found to be ineffective. Increased side effects and of greater severity are found with tricyclic antidepressants, including blurred vision, constipation, confusion and low blood pressure. Older people may experience problems with memory or hallucinations. These medications also may cause weight gain.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are often the very last alternative to treat depression. Common generic and brand names include tranylcypromine (Parnate) and phenelzine (Nardil). These medications require increased intervention and support from health care providers due to the potential for serious side effects. A strict diet is required to reduce the potential for harmful or deadly interactions from foods, including wines, some cheeses and even decongestants, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Other Medications
Trazodone (Desyrel) and mirtazapine (Remeron) have sedating effects and are often used in the evening and in combination with other antidepressants. These antidepressants do not fit into any other group.
