Information on Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications that help improve mood by slowing down the reuptake of certain transmitters in the brain. They can alleviate symptoms associated with depression such as sadness, depressed mood, appetite changes and sleeplessness.

Selective Serotonic Reuptake Inhibitors

• SSRIs act on the neurotransmitter serotonin by slowing down its reuptake. Examples of drugs in this class are paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft)

Tricyclic Antidepressants

• Tricyclic antidepressants work on slowing the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine transmitters. Tricyclics also slow the absorption of dopamine in the brain. Drugs in this class are impramine (Tofranil) and notriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor)

Serotonergic and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors

• SNRIs help augment the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain (serotonin and norepinephrine) which appears to improve the symptoms of depression in some patients. Examples of SNRIs are vanlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Considerations

• Choosing the right antidepressant takes time and planning. Taking a blood test such as cytochrome P450 may help decide which antidepressants work best with your body.

Side Effects

• Antidepressants have side effects which vary according to medication and the person taking them. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, sexual problems, weight fluctuations, blurred vision, nervousness and insomnia. Discuss your medication management with your doctor. Don't be afraid to ask questions.