Doctors have found that many antidepressant drugs also work effectively for anxiety disorders. These depression medications have the advantages of providing emotional improvement with no anxiety effects for many patients. However, as with other medications, the drugs have different side effects for some people, usually during the first few weeks of treatment. Adjusting or switching medications often treats the side effects, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Stopping the drugs abruptly, without the approval of a doctor, may result in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
Serotonin Enhancers
The neurotransmitter serotonin helps improve moods for patients with depression and anxiety. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, block the absorption of these chemicals by the brain after they perform signal transmissions. This increases serotonin levels to help patients, the National Alliance on Mental Illness explains. Medications include fluoxetine, paroxetine and sertraline. Closely related drugs, called serotonin and norepinephrine inhibitors, or SNRIs, work the same way by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, an adrenal hormone. Drugs include duloxetine and venlafaxine. SSRIs and SNRIs have fewer side effects than other antidepressants. Nausea, nervousness, insomnia, agitation or sexual problems may occur. Adjustments to medication may help reduce the effects.
Bupropion
Bupropion blocks the reuptake of dopamine, a brain chemical involved in pleasurable feelings, and norepinephrine to provide more levels of the neurotransmitters and improve moods. Bupropion is among the antidepressants to have the lowest rate of sexual side effects, according to MayoClinic.com. However, it can increase the risk of having seizures if taken at high doses. Some patients may have side effects of restlessness, insomnia, confusion, dizziness, nausea, constipation or rash.
Trazodone
Trazodone helps restore the balance of serotonin in the brain. The medication works to treat depression and anxiety in patients. Trazodone falls into an atypical antidepressant category because it is unlike other antidepressants, MayoClinic.com notes. The drugs have a sedating effect on patients with depression. Patients usually take them in the evening, especially if they need help with sleep along with depression.
Tricyclics
Tricyclic antidepressants work as well as other antidepressants, but may have more severe side effects. However, along with treating depression, the drugs also help patients with anxiety disorders. Patients with panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder benefit from imipramine, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Clomipramine often works for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Doctors may prescribe tricyclics when other drugs do not work. Side effects may include dry mouth, bladder problems, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness and sexual problems.
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