Choosing the right antidepressant is an important part of treating depression, and the possible side effects of a medication can be a deterrent. The Mayo Clinic adds that "bothersome side effects can make it difficult to stick with treatment." Depression medicine can be broken up into three groups: reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs, SSRIs and SNRIs), cyclic antidepressants (tricyclic and tetracyclics) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Reuptake inhibitors have the least amount of side effects and are the first choice for medication.
Norepinephrine and Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors
Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) work by preventing the recycling of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which improves mood. The Mayo Clinic notes that only one NDRI is approved for depression treatment--bupropion. NDRIs have the least sexual side effects out of all the antidepressants, and can also help suppress appetite and smoking urges; however, they should not be used by people with seizures, bulimia or anorexia. NDRIs do have some side effects, which include weight loss, headaches, dry mouth, shakiness, constipation, sore throat and problems sleeping.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
The Mayo Clinic says that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like fluoxetine and sertraline, are the most popular choice for depression medicine. This medication works similarly to NDRIs, but prevent the reuptake of only one neurotransmitter, serotonin. SSRIs, however, do cause sexual side effects such as problems reaching an orgasm. Other side effects include nausea, dry mouth, weight gain, drowsiness and insomnia.
Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
The last type of reuptake inhibitor, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) target both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. The Mayo Clinic notes that duloxetine and venlafaxine, two SNRIs, are approved for depression treatment. Side effects of SNRIs are similar to the SSRI side effects, which include nausea, sleepiness, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, headaches and sexual dysfunction.
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