There are many medication options to choose from when suffering from severe depression. Newer antidepressants are typically the first line of treatment; older medications might be effective if the new types do not work well.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are taken on a daily basis for depression. These antidepressants affect the concentration and activity of serotonin neurotransmitters. SSRIs are preferred because of the mild side effects over the older antidepressants.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants are older medications that are used less often than the newer SSRI medications. Tricyclics affect the concentration and activity of the serotonin and norepinephrine chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are associated with depression and anxiety.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are antidepressants that can be used for resistant severe depression. These medications are taken daily and work by blocking the effect of a brain enzyme that prevents the breakdown of serotonin and norepinephrine. These medications also have dietary restrictions that are difficult to follow.
Mood Stabilizers
Mood stabilizers are used in conditions of bipolar depression, which can be very severe. These medications work by enhancing the effects of GABA, serotonin and norepinephrine chemicals in the brain. These medications stabilize severe depression and mania.
Warnings
Taking an antidepressant medication for severe depression is useful, but precautions should be discussed with your physician. Antidepressants can sometimes cause an upswing in mood called mania that needs close monitoring. Some antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents.
