Types of Depression Medicines

Depression is a mental health condition characterized by sad or unhappy feelings for long periods of time. Clinical depression causes significant challenges in day-to-day activities. Several different types of medications are used to treat depression. Medication is prescribed based on the patient's needs and the doctor's recommendations.

  1. Tricyclic Antidepressants

    • Tricyclic antidepressants include the following medications: Adapin, Anafranil, Asendin, Elavil, Norpramin, Pamelor, Sinequan, Tofranil, Surmontil and Vivactin. Tricyclic antidepressants prevent brain cells from reabsorbing norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine too quickly. The body releases these chemicals to promote a feeling of well being.

    SSRI/SSNRI

    • SSRI medications include Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, Pexeva, Prozac, Rapiflux and Zoloft. SSNRI medications include Cymbalta, Effexor and Pristiq. Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI) work similar to tricyclic antidepressants, but only the re-absorption of serotonin is halted. Selective serotonin norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors (SSNRI) slow both the re-absorption of serotonin and norepinephrine. According to Drugs.com, SSRI and SSNRI antidepressants generally have less adverse side effects and tricyclic antidepressants.

    MAOI

    • MAO inhibitors include Eldepryl, Marplan, Parnate and Zelapar. MAO inhibitors work by preventing the monoxamine oxidase chemical from working in the central nervous system. MAO chemicals reduce the amount of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. However, if the MAO chemical is blocked, these chemicals levels will stay high and result in a happier mood.

    Benzodizeprines

    • Benzodizeprines include Alprazolam, Niravam and Xanax. Benzodizeprines increase the activity of gamma-amino butyric acid, which has a calming affect on the central nervous system.

    Bupropions

    • Bupropins include Alpenzin, Budeprion and Wellbutrin. Bupropions slow the re-absorption of dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps individuals maintain a happier mood.

    Atypical Antipsychotics

    • Atypical antipsychotics include Abilify, Invega, Seroquel and Zyprexa. Most atypical antipsychotics target serotonin and dopamine receptors.

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