For those who have had several bouts of depression, long-term treatment with medication is the most effective means of preventing more episodes. Traditionally, antidepressant dosages are started low and raised gradually over time until the desired effect is reached without the appearance of troublesome side effects.

Newer antidepressants may be started at or near therapeutic doses. Early antidepressants. From the s through the s, tricyclic antidepressants named for their chemical structure were the first line of treatment for major depression.

Most of these medications affected two chemical neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and serotonin. Though the tricyclics are as effective in treating depression as the newer antidepressants, their side effects are usually more unpleasant; thus, today tricyclics such as imipramine, amitriptyline, nortriptyline and desipramine are used as a second- or third-line treatment.

Other antidepressants introduced during this period were monoamine oxidase inhibitors MAOIs. MAOIs are effective for some people with major depression who do not respond to other antidepressants.

They are also effective for the treatment of panic disorder and bipolar depression. MAOIs approved for the treatment of depression are phenelzine Nardil , tranylcypromine Parnate , and isocarboxazid Marplan. Because substances in certain foods, beverages, and medications can cause dangerous interactions when combined with MAOIs, people on these agents must adhere to dietary restrictions.

This has deterred many clinicians and patients from using these effective medications, which are in fact quite safe when used as directed. The past decade has seen the introduction of many new antidepressants that work as well as the older ones but have fewer side effects.

Some of these medications primarily affect one neurotransmitter, serotonin, and are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs. These include fluoxetine Prozac , sertraline Zoloft , fluvoxamine Luvox , paroxetine Paxil , and citalopram Celexa.

The late s ushered in new medications that, like the tricyclics, affect both norepinephrine and serotonin but have fewer side effects. These new medications include venlafaxine Effexor and nefazadone Serzone.

Cases of life-threatening hepatic failure have been reported in patients treated with nefazodone Serzone. Patients should call the doctor if the following symptoms of liver dysfunction occur — yellowing of the skin or white of eyes, unusually dark urine, loss of appetite that lasts for several days, nausea or abdominal pain.

Other newer medications chemically unrelated to the other antidepressants are the sedating mirtazepine Remeron and the more activating bupropion Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin has not been associated with weight gain or sexual dysfunction but is not used for people with, or at risk for, a seizure disorder.

Each antidepressant differs in its side effects and in its effectiveness in treating an individual person, but the majority of people with depression can be treated effectively by one of these antidepressants. Antidepressants may cause mild, and often temporary, side effects sometimes referred to as adverse effects in some people.

Typically, these are not serious. However, any reactions or side effects that are unusual, annoying or that interfere with functioning should be reported to the doctor immediately. Any of these side effects may be amplified when an SSRI is combined with other medications that affect serotonin.

In the most extreme cases, such a combination of medications e. The small number of people for whom MAOIs are the best treatment need to avoid taking decongestants and consuming certain foods that contain high levels of tyramine, such as many cheeses, wines and pickles.

The interaction of tyramine with MAOIs can bring on a sharp increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke. The doctor should furnish a complete list of prohibited foods that the individual should carry at all times. Other forms of antidepressants require no food restrictions.

MAOIs also should not be combined with other antidepressants, especially SSRIs, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Medications of any kind — prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal supplements — should never be mixed without consulting the doctor; nor should medications ever be borrowed from another person. Other health professionals who may prescribe a drug — such as a dentist or other medical specialist — should be told that the person is taking a specific antidepressant and the dosage.

Some drugs, although safe when taken alone, can cause severe and dangerous side effects if taken with other drugs. Alcohol wine, beer and hard liquor or street drugs, may reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and their use should be minimized or, preferably, avoided by anyone taking antidepressants.

Some people who have not had a problem with alcohol use may be permitted by their doctor to use a modest amount of alcohol while taking one of the newer antidepressants.

The potency of alcohol may be increased by medications since both are metabolized by the liver; one drink may feel like two. Although not common, some people have experienced withdrawal symptoms when stopping an antidepressant too abruptly.

Therefore, when discontinuing an antidepressant, gradual withdrawal is generally advisable. National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI.

If you're considering taking an antidepressant, understanding how the most popular ones work can help you and your healthcare provider decide which might work best for you and when you should take it.

Depression medications, also referred to as antidepressants, are prescription medications that help manage depressive symptoms. These symptoms can vary, but include feeling "empty," increased irritability, having a loss of energy, and a loss of interest in activities that one used to enjoy.

In the s, the antihypertensive drug reserpine was found to increase depression in some patients, mainly by depleting their levels of serotonin and catecholamines. This established the connection between some neurotransmitters and depression, also prompting the development of medications that increase these chemical substances.

There are five major classes of antidepressants , and they all work in different ways:. But the one thing all of these antidepressant medications have in common is that they increase the availability of monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain. Monoamine neurotransmitters, such as serotonin , dopamine , and norepinephrine , help regulate your mood, emotions, and behavior.

In people with depression, the availability of these monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain is characteristically low. Antidepressants work by preventing the reuptake of one or more of these neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their availability.

A recent review of the research concluded that depression is likely not caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. However, antidepressant medication can still play a role in alleviating symptoms of depression.

For some people, antidepressant medication may be most effective when it is used in conjunction with psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications.

Taking a more in-depth look at the common antidepressant medications can increase your understanding of how this mental health condition is treated with the use of prescription drugs.

SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs, and atypical antidepressants are part of this list of common depression medications. Prozac belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs.

In other words, SSRIs relieve depression by boosting low levels of serotonin in the brain. That makes SSRIs the most popular drugs for depression. Some of the most commonly prescribed SSRIs include:. Most SSRIs are similar in regard to how well they work, although there may be subtle differences that can make one a better choice for you.

It takes a while for SSRIs to build up in the body enough to have an effect on symptoms. Because of this, it can take several weeks or even months of trial and error to find the particular drug and dosage that will do you the most good. Other common antidepressants belong to a class of drugs called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors SNRIs.

These depression medications inhibit the reuptake of two neurotransmitters: serotonin and norepinephrine. The SNRIs that are available are:. While Strattera is an SNRI, it is used as a non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD, not depression or anxiety. One of the most commonly prescribed SNRIs is Effexor venlafaxine , which is as effective as other antidepressants in treating depression but does have a higher rate of causing nausea and vomiting, and may increase blood pressure and heart rate.

The SNRI Cymbalta duloxetine can also increase blood pressure, but the bigger concern with this drug is that, in some people, it can lead to liver failure; so, if you have any sort of liver disease, it could be a dangerous choice for you.

The same is true if you drink a lot of alcohol. Tricyclic antidepressants TCAs were among the first antidepressants. While they have been largely replaced by SSRIs, SNRIs, and other antidepressants, TCAs can still be a good option in cases where people have not responded to other types of antidepressant drugs.

Types of tricyclics that are available include:. Tricyclics work by blocking the absorption of serotonin and norepinephrine. By preventing the reuptake of those neurotransmitters, it increases serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which can help to improve mood and relieve depression.

No TCA medication made the top 10 list of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric drugs. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors MAOIs were the first type of medication developed to treat depression.

They have been largely replaced by newer antidepressants that are safer and have fewer side effects, but there are still several MAOIs available. Some of the most commonly prescribed MAOIs include:.

MAOIs work by inhibiting monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are all neurotransmitters that control mood. This results in higher levels of these chemicals in the brain which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.

MAOIs are rarely prescribed given the significant risk associated with eating certain foods containing tyramine, which can cause a hypertensive crisis. Atypical antidepressants are those that don't fit into any of the other classes.

Doctors often prescribe them if other antidepressants either don't work or cause unbearable side effects. Common atypical antidepressants include:. Each of these atypical antidepressants influences different neurotransmitters in different ways.

Some target dopamine, for example, while others serotonin or norepinephrine. Still others target a combination of the three. As a result, they have different side effects compared to other antidepressants. For example, compared to other antidepressants, Desyrel is less likely to cause symptoms such as sexual dysfunction, insomnia, or anxiety.

Of the atypical antidepressants, Wellbutrin is one of the most commonly prescribed. It works by acting on the neurotransmitter dopamine affecting energy levels, motivation, and attention. It has a lower risk of sexual and gastrointestinal side effects.

In fact, some doctors prescribe Wellbutrin along with another SSRI to help counter low libido. In a study involving people using antidepressants long-term , Additionally, The medications taken in this study included citalopram, venlafaxine, paroxetine, fluoxetine, loxamine, and nortriptyline.

Another piece of research looked at different trials and found that "all antidepressants were more effective than placebo" for individuals with major depressive disorder MDD.

Also known as clinical depression , MDD involves having at least five depressive symptoms every day for at least two weeks, among other diagnostic criteria. Some researchers question the validity of studies involving antidepressants, indicating that they may work but also citing concerns over the size of the effects and bias due to the methods used.

Depression medications are used to help reduce depression symptoms. While these symptoms can vary from one person to another, they may include:. If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at for support and assistance from a trained counselor.

If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. There is no one-size-fits-all depression medication. Your healthcare provider can help find the best medication for you, along with finding the proper dosage.

Finding the best antidepressant for you depends on a variety of factors, such as:. It generally takes four to eight weeks for these medicines to work, though you may notice positive changes related to sleeping and eating, for instance, before seeing improvements in your mood.

While many people take antidepressants for six to 12 months, your length of use may be longer. When taking antidepressants, avoiding drugs and alcohol is important. Your provider may also suggest that you engage in psychotherapy along with taking medications to provide a greater treatment effect.

Never stop the use of antidepressant medications without consulting with your healthcare provider as this can cause a relapse in your symptoms. Also, talk with your provider if you're having trouble with your medicine's side effects.

Lowering the dosage or switching medicines may help ease these effects. Antidepressants can improve the symptoms of depression, but, like all medications, they can also cause side effects.

The frequency and severity of these side effects vary depending on the class of medication you're taking. Common side effects of antidepressants include:. Antidepressants may also increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior suicidality , especially during the first few months of treatment, or when your dose is increased or decreased.

Teens and young adults are especially at risk and should be monitored closely. Side effects tend to be mild and go away as your body adjusts to the medication. If your side effects are severe or last for longer than a few weeks, your prescribing doctor may adjust your dosage or recommend a different antidepressant.

If and when you and a doctor decide to stop your medication, it's important to wean off most antidepressants slowly. If you suddenly stop taking an antidepressant medication, you can experience withdrawal symptoms , such as mood swings, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, and headaches.

Prescription medications aren't the only options for treating depression. Some researchers also suggest that there are a few natural products that can be helpful for reducing depressive symptoms.

According to a article published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine , natural depression treatment options may include:. Other studies report that, for some people, St. John's wort is as effective as SSRIs for treating depression.

Positive results have also been found for omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, S -adenosylmethionine SAMe , and methylfolate. Do not take herbs, supplements, or other substances for depression without talking to your doctor first. Some substances may lead to dangerous drug interactions when combined with antidepressants.

It is a personal choice whether to take medication for your depression. Speak to a healthcare provider first. For mild to moderate cases of depression, they may recommend therapy and lifestyle changes before prescribing antidepressants.

If you have suicidal thoughts, contact a medical professional right away. They may prescribe another medication, such as a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic to reduce suicidal thoughts, as well as recommend further psychological support.

Antidepressants aren't addictive, but you can become physiologically dependent on them and experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them. As a result, a provider may recommend tapering your dose when discontinuing use rather than stopping cold turkey.

It depends on how effective the medication is. A health practitioner will usually prescribe an antidepressant for a period of at least six months, then re-evaluate your symptoms.

Talk to your provider before you stop taking antidepressants. Your depression symptoms may return if you stop taking them too quickly. Your prescribing physician will want to make sure you are in a stable place and that you'll be able to cope with life stressors once you're off your medication.

Brody DJ, Gu Q. Antidepressant use among adults: United States, NCHS Data Brief. Hillhouse TM, Porter JH. A brief history of the development of antidepressant drugs: From monoamines to glutamate.

Exp Clin Psychopharmacol. Moncrieff J, Cooper RE, Stockmann T, Amendola S, Hengartner MP, Horowitz MA. The serotonin theory of depression: A systematic umbrella review of the evidence.

Antidepressants do not have these effects. Antidepressants do, however, have one thing in common with some addictive drugs—they can cause withdrawal effects when you stop taking them. When you take antidepressants for months or years, your body adjusts to the presence of the drug.

If you then stop using it, especially if you stop suddenly, you may experience withdrawal effects such as muscle aches, electric-shock-like sensations, dizziness, headache, nausea, chills and diarrhea. These effects are most commonly reported with paroxetine Paxil and venlafaxine Effexor ; however, they can occur with any antidepressant.

Some people find these effects distressing and have difficulty withdrawing from these drugs. Whether you want to cut down your dose or stop taking a medication, the same rule applies: go slowly.

Sudden changes in your dose can greatly increase your risk of having another mood episode or having withdrawal effects. The first step is to ask yourself if this is the right time. Are you feeling well? Is the level of stress in your life manageable? Do you feel supported by your family and friends?

If you are not satisfied with his or her reasons, you may want to see another doctor for a second opinion. If your doctor does agree, he or she will advise you not to skip doses but to reduce your dose gradually—usually by about 10 per cent at a time—with at least two to three weeks between each reduction.

This process of cutting back will take several months. Using a pill cutter can help you to cut your dose down in small amounts. If you want to stop taking more than one medication, your doctor will usually suggest that you lower the dose of one drug at a time.

As you cut down, if you start to feel unwell, let your doctor know. He or she can help you determine whether you are experiencing withdrawal effects or signs that symptoms are returning. Find the dose that works best for you.

Antidepressants may interact with some other types of medication, even over-the-counter medications, such as cold or allergy tablets or cough syrups, and some herbal remedies, such as St. Always ask your doctor, dentist or pharmacist about potential drug interactions with the medication you are taking before you take other medications.

Drinking alcohol can worsen symptoms of depression or anxiety. Alcohol can also worsen some side-effects of antidepressants, making you more sleepy, dizzy and lightheaded. However, if you have been taking antidepressants for more than a few weeks, and you are feeling well, having a drink or two on occasion should be okay—but remember that one drink could have the effect of two or even three drinks.

The caffeine in coffee and other beverages can cause problems if you struggle with depression or anxiety. Depression disrupts sleep, and caffeine, a stimulant, can make the problem worse. It is better to drink decaffeinated coffee and beverages or to decrease the amount you drink.

You want to feel well. While street drugs such as marijuana or cocaine may have some effects that seem to make you feel better for a while, mixing the effects of these drugs may make your situation worse.

Street drugs may also interact with your medication, for example, by interfering with its effectiveness or by worsening side-effects. Depression itself can lead to fatigue and concentration problems, affecting your ability to drive.

Antidepressant medications may also cause drowsiness, especially in the early stages of treatment, before your body has adjusted to the medication.

If you feel drowsy, do not drive a car or operate machinery. Alcohol, sedatives and antihistamines cold and hay fever medication will worsen the problem. Antidepressants, especially those that increase serotonin activity, can also negatively affect sexual function.

Sexual side-effects of antidepressants can include delayed ejaculation and the inability to experience an orgasm. Many factors affect your sexuality. When antidepressants bring relief from the distress of depression or anxiety, this may help you to focus more on your partner and to feel more desire.

If you think your medication affects your sexual function, your doctor may be able to help by changing your dose, switching medication or adding other medications. For any pregnant woman with a history of depression, the question of whether to take antidepressants during pregnancy usually comes down to a risk-benefit analysis.

When treatment with an antidepressant helps to avoid a relapse or to reduce distress, the benefits of continuing the medication may outweigh the risks. Antidepressants are relatively safe to use during pregnancy.

When they are used close to delivery, newborns may be restless and irritable, and may have sleeping, feeding and breathing difficulties. These problems resolve within three days to two weeks.

Antidepressants do not increase risk for birth defects. The amount of antidepressant passed through breast milk is very small and is not considered to be a risk to the baby, especially when weighed against the benefits of breastfeeding.

If you decide to stop taking medications during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, it is a good idea to see your doctor more often, to help you monitor for a return of symptoms. Most antidepressants are not officially approved for use by children and teens.

However, when distress is so severe that non-drug approaches are not possible, or when they do not work, antidepressants may be considered. Studies of children and and young people who take antidepressants suggest an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour, but not death by suicide.

Antidepressants are an effective treatment for depression in adults over 65 and are known to decrease the risk of suicide in this population.

However, due to the increased sensitivity of the older body, older adults are more vulnerable to side-effects.

As older adults often take multiple medications, they are also more vulnerable to drug interactions. Older adults usually start with lower doses, and the dose is increased at a slower rate.

Adapted from Understanding psychiatric medications: Antidepressants c CAMH, Understanding psychiatric medications: Antidepressants PDF For more information on medications, contact your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Back to top. Keep your finger on our pulse — latest CAMH news, discoveries and ways to get involved delivered to your inbox.

By clicking Sign Up below, I consent to receive electronic communications as selected above from CAMH and CAMH Foundation. To unsubscribe at any time click the link in our mailing or email: unsubscribe camh. Overview Antidepressant medications are most commonly used to help relieve the distress of depression or anxiety.

Do I need this treatment? Heart Health Awareness : This drug has been linked to severe heart problems. Contact a medical professional immediately if you experience heart palpitations, chest pain, or dizziness. Interaction with MAOIs: Citalopram should not be taken at the same time as an MAOI.

Mental Health Vigilance: If you have negative thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate help. Breastfeeding Advisory: Refrain from breastfeeding while taking citalopram, as it can be transmitted through breast milk and may affect the infant.

Managing Missed Doses: Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible. However, do not double a dose; skipping one dose is better than taking two at once.

Citalopram Side Effects As with any medication, citalopram may have side effects. Serious Side Effects Allergic reaction — Do not ignore symptoms like hives, blisters, fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the throat or tongue.

Behavior and mood changes — worsened depression, irritability, restlessness, and more. Seek emergency assistance for any thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Common Side Effects Dizziness or drowsiness Increased thirst Decreased appetite or increased nausea Anxiety or agitation Increased weakness Insomnia Bloody noses Symptoms of a cold congestion, sneezes Other Citalopram side effects are possible.

Need Help? Sertraline Zoloft Sertraline is a medicine used by doctors in the treatment of depression. It can also treat other illnesses, like: MDD major depressive disorder SAD social anxiety disorder OCD obsessive-compulsive disorder PTSD post-traumatic stress disorder Panic disorder Patients should always tell their doctor about their medications and supplements.

Contact us. Important Cautions and Considerations for Sertraline Use As with any prescription medication, sertraline may cause some unwanted effects. Be aware of the following cautions and seek help if needed: Do not take sertraline while also taking MAOIs, pimozide, or methylene blue injections.

Be vigilant of any thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Seek immediate medical care if having these thoughts. Do not give to children under the age of 6.

Ask a doctor if breastfeeding while taking sertraline is a safe option. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. Never take a double dose of sertraline. Sertraline Side Effects While taking this medication, patients may experience varying side effects.

Emergency medical attention may be needed if: Allergic reaction like trouble breathing, swelling, hives Extreme mood or behavior changes like increased agitation, depression, or anger Manic behavior, seizure Uncontrolled bleeding Changes in vision Signs of low sodium Common Side Effects of Sertraline Gastrointestinal problems like nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion Excess sweating, unexplained tremors Problems sexually Need Help?

Escitalopram Lexapro Escitalopram also known by its brand name, Lexapro is an antidepressant. Cautions When taking escitalopram, be aware of the following cautions.

Seek medical care if needed. Do not take if also taking citalopram or pimozide. Do not take if also taking MAOI drugs. If thoughts of self-harm or suicide worsen, get immediate help from a doctor. This is a serious situation and should not be ignored. If the patient is pregnant, discuss whether escitalopram is the right medication.

This medicine can be detrimental to the fetus. Do not breastfeed until you speak with your doctor about possible side effects. Side Effects of Lexapro Even when patients take escitalopram correctly, there can be side effects.

Seek immediate help at an emergency room if you experience the following:. Allergic reactions including difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat, or hives Extreme changes in mood and behavior such as increased hostility or aggression Changes in vision including blurring and seeing a halo light Discomfort when urinating Thoughts racing Headache or slurred speech Common side effects of Escitalopram Pain when urinating Feeling dizzy, weak, more tired Anxiety and agitation, shaky muscles Sleeping problems Dry mouth or extra thirsty Nauseous or constipated Bloody noses Sexual dysfunction including change in sex drive.

Paroxetine Paxil Paroxetine is a prescription medication. Other conditions that can also be treated with this medication are: Panic disorder OCD obsessive-compulsive disorder PTSD post-traumatic stress disorder Anxiety Paroxetine is classified as an SSRI.

Common side effects of Paroxetine Changes in eyesight Increasingly weaker, dizzier, or tired Increased anxiousness Sweatier or shakier than normal Trouble sleeping having insomnia Sudden infections Stomach problems decreased appetite, increased nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation Dry mouth Unexplained infection Unusual headaches Sexual dysfunctions including lowered sex drive These are just some of the side effects of Paroxetine.

Cautions Before taking paroxetine, patients should discuss any relevant warnings about this drug. Avoid taking it with Thioridazine, Pimozide, or MAOIs. For hallucinations, severe dizziness, violent vomiting, or seizures, seek emergency care. If suicidal or self-harming, get urgent help. Pregnant patients should discuss paroxetine risks with a doctor.

Do not breastfeed while on this medication. Not for those under Discover your path to recovery with individualized depression treatment Overcoming depression may seem overwhelming to those with the condition.

Sources: Medical News Today. What is Depression: Definition. August 4, Available at: medicalnewstoday. What are the Top 10 Antidepressant Drugs? A person can speak with a doctor about their individual circumstances. The doctor can help them find the best treatment option for them.

The CDC notes there is a link between taking SSRIs during pregnancy and congenital abnormalities. However, this risk is very low. For some people, the risks associated with stopping the medication are higher than those associated with continuing to take it.

If a person is pregnant and wishes to continue or begin taking antidepressants, they should speak with a doctor. Tiny amounts of some antidepressants can enter breast milk.

According to the NHS, doctors typically suggest a person takes antidepressants for at least 6 months. Antidepressants can help relieve symptoms of conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.

They work by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain. Examples of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and NaSSAs. MAOIs may also be an option, though doctors prescribe these less often due to the risk of adverse side effects. It can take several weeks for antidepressants to start working.

People may experience side effects. Alternatives to antidepressants include therapy, diet and exercise, and St. However, depression is a serious condition that may need professional treatment. Anyone who experiences the symptoms of depression should speak with a doctor.

Antidepressants can help manage the symptoms of depression, but they can be difficult to stop. Find out what to expect and get some tips on managing…. There are various pros and cons of taking antidepressants.

Understanding these can help an individual decided whether antidepressants are right for…. How do antidepressants cause sexual side effects and what are the side effects in men and women? Which antidepressants cause fewer sexual side effects? Doctors often use antidepressants as an off-label treatment for chronic pain.

However, research suggests this may not always be effective. Learn more…. My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us.

Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. All about antidepressants. Medically reviewed by Alyssa Peckham, PharmD, BCPP — By Christian Nordqvist and Amanda Barrell — Updated on January 26, Types Side effects Efficacy Alternatives How they work Taking effect FAQ Summary Antidepressants can help relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Side effects. Call or the local emergency number, or text TALK to to communicate with a trained crisis counselor. Stay with the person until professional help arrives.

Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects. Was this helpful? Alternative options.