What Depression Medication Is Right For Me?
Depression is an umbrella term for the various depressive disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). In some cases, depression can be severe, causing marked impairments in almost every aspect of life. Daily tasks can be challenging or impossible for those living with this condition.
Some people turn to medication or medical treatments to cope with the symptoms of depression while partaking in other forms of treatment, like therapy. Understanding antidepressants can help you understand whether you want to try this treatment format.
What is depression?
To understand medication for depression, it can be vital to know what depression is. It can be healthy and normal to feel sad or experience a negative frame of mind for a short time. However, clinical depression is different and causes moderate to severe functional difficulties. Conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD) last for two weeks or more, and conditions like persistent depressive disorder (PDD) can last for over two years.
Clinical depression, sometimes called major depression, can only be diagnosed by a licensed counselor, therapist, or doctor. Depression medications are managed, which means that to obtain them, you will need to speak to a doctor, like a psychiatrist, to determine what medication may work best for your symptoms.
Considerations before taking antidepressants
Below are a few considerations to keep in mind before taking antidepressants.
Underlying conditions
There is no "happy pill" that can eliminate all the symptoms of depression instantly. Multiple medications are used to treat depression, but none are a one-size-fits-all solution.
Each person can have unique reactions to pharmaceuticals. What works for one person might not work for another because, in addition to depression, they may also be living with another medical condition. Someone with kidney, heart, or liver disease who wants to go on medicine for depression may have limited options as these conditions can render some meds for depression unsafe. For this reason, discuss your underlying conditions and symptoms with your doctor before settling on an option.
Dosage
The first depression medication you take may not work to the point that you feel entirely "cured" or "better." If you're looking for complete remission, your doctor might lead you through experimenting with the dosage. Several factors, including genetic variables, body size, and physiology, can determine whether a medication works for you. In addition, a combination approach of therapy and medication may be more effective for depression than medication alone.
Combining options
Some people may take multiple medications for their symptoms instead of just one. If you're experiencing multiple symptoms of depression like insomnia, a lack of energy, and difficulty feeling happy, your psychiatrist may prescribe a medication for each individual symptom.
Types of depression medications
Antidepressants are a medication class that is often the first option when treating depressive disorders. They are commonly prescribed to go along with psychotherapy. When you attend therapy and take medications, the medication can manage your symptoms so you can focus on the lessons you're learning in therapy.
There are several types of antidepressants on the market. If one isn't working, your doctor might change the dose, go to a different medication in the same class, or utilize a different type of medication altogether. Below are a few of your options.
SSRIs
SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medications first became prominent in the 1980s and are the most common class for depression. Examples include Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, Paxil, Pexeva, Celexa, and Sarafem.
The side effects of SSRIs may be considered milder and commonly include headaches, weight changes, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, libido changes, and an upset stomach. While you may experience some of these effects during the early administration of the drug, your body may adjust to them over time.
SNRIs
SNRIs are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They're a new depression medication compared to the other subcategories. A few SNRIs include Fetzima, Cymbalta, Pristiq, Effexor, and Khedezla. Side effects for these are like what you might encounter with SSRIs, with sexual challenges, an upset stomach, insomnia, fatigue, and dizziness being the most common.
TCAs
TCAs are called tricyclic antidepressants. These medications were some of the first to be used as a treatment for clinical depression and include Elavil, Vivactil, Pamelor, Tofranil, Norpramin, and Pertofrane. Side effects may include changes in blood sugar levels, dizziness, dry mouth, and upset stomach.
Medications used with antidepressants
If antidepressants alone cannot manage your symptoms, your doctor may recommend alternative or conjunctive treatments like the following.
Antipsychotic medication
The term "antipsychotic" might make these medications seem serious, but many people take them for various challenges. If your doctor asks you to take an antipsychotic, it doesn't mean you are "psychotic." These medications are often used to treat mood swings and mania. A few options may include Abilify, Rexulti, Symbyax, and Seroquel. A combination of an antipsychotic and an antidepressant might sometimes be employed for conditions like bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Lithium
Your doctor might try lithium for depression in some cases, which is a common medication for people living with bipolar disorder. Lithium can have mood-stabilizing effects that put people at a "baseline," evening out their moods so that they don't experience the highs and lows of mania, hypomania, and depression that occur with bipolar disorder.
Stimulants
Some stimulants are sometimes used for people with depression. The most common stimulants used are Ritalin and Vyvanse. Buspar, an anti-anxiety medication, is also possible and positively impacts some clients.
It's also possible that your doctor might have you try a medication or supplement that may not typically be used with depression or might generally be used for something else. If that's the case, talk with your doctor about any concerns.
How to get the most from your depression treatment
Determining the best depression medication for you can involve trial and error. Feeling frustrated may not be uncommon if you don't see results immediately. When you begin medication for depression, follow instructions, pay attention to how you're feeling, and report any problems to your doctor. Below are a few other ways to get the most from your treatment.
Have a social support network in place
Having a support network can be essential when you're going through treatment for depression. A support network might include family and friends, and it could extend to teachers, guidance counselors, co-workers, religious organizations, or your therapist. Be honest with those closest to you about your experience, and let them know if there's any way they can support you in your treatment.
Only use the prescribed dosage
Use the prescribed dosage of your medication. Some medications for depression can take up to eight weeks to cause effects, so don't raise the dosage yourself if you feel like the medication isn't working. Taking your medication incorrectly can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Talk to your doctor if you believe your medication is not working or is causing unwanted side effects.
Develop healthy medication habits
Take your meds at the same time every day. If you're supposed to take them with food, it can be essential to do so to avoid unwanted side effects. If you struggle to remain on time with your medication, get a weekly pill box and a medication alarm.
Report side effects to your doctor
Report any side effects to your doctor. Don't ignore them; try not to give up on your medication if one shows up. Stopping medication without consulting your doctor can lead to withdrawal effects which may sometimes be dangerous.
Your doctor may have advice about alleviating side effects if they occur and whether a side effect is dangerous. In addition, notify your doctor if you are prescribed medication by another healthcare professional. Some medications don't mix well.
Don't mix substances
Do not mix alcohol, marijuana, or illicit substances with your depression meds. Some of the reactions could be damaging and by diluting your prescribed medication, it may not be able to work as effectively. In some cases, mixing substances with medication can be lethal.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.
Talk to a therapist
There is some evidence that combining medication with psychotherapy may be more effective than either option alone. If your doctor recommends therapy as part of your treatment plan or if you want to talk to someone about your symptoms, therapy online or in your area could be an option.
Online therapy for help with depression
Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp is a flexible, convenient way to get treatment. When you sign up, you'll be matched with a qualified therapist, and you can start quickly, often within 48 hours. In addition, you can contact your therapist throughout the week using messaging.
Research shows that online treatment is effective for treating depression. One review of 17 studies found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy (I-CBT) was more effective than in-person treatment and that participants were equally as satisfied with their results.
Takeaway
What is the most effective antidepressant?
The effectiveness of antidepressant medications can vary from person to person. Factors like a person’s specific symptoms, co-existing health conditions, genetics, and other medications they may be taking can all play a role. It’s important to work closely with healthcare providers to find the best depression meds for a person’s unique circumstances and needs.
What are the best medications to take when depressed?
As with all mental health medications, the best medication to take depends on numerous factors. Some of the medications used for the treatment of depression symptoms include:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Atypical Antidepressants
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
- NMDA Antagonists
The best medication for you will depend on your individual circumstances.
What is the first medication of choice for depression?
SSRIs, or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, are often the initial treatment medication for depression. These medications can help regulate mood by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. However, while SSRIs are a common starting point, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine if SSRIs or other antidepressants are the best medication for an individual.
What is the safest antidepressant?
The “safest” medication can vary based on individual health factors, potential drug interactions, and specific concerns or conditions a person may have. SSRIs are often chosen because they are less likely to have severe side effects compared to other depressants. However, everyone’s body reacts differently, and what’s safe for one person may not be for the next.
Which antidepressant works fastest?
While response time can vary for individuals, some antidepressants may produce noticeable effects more quickly than others. For instance, certain stimulants or an atypical antidepressant might produce effects within days to a week. Additionally, the medication Ketamine and its related compound, Esketamine, have shown rapid antidepressant effects within hours to a couple of days. A new drug, Auvelity, has also shown fast effects.
Traditional antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs often take several weeks to show their full effect. It’s important for individuals to work with professionals to determine which medications are right for them.
What is the safest antidepressant for anxiety?
SSRIs are often the first choice for treating anxiety disorders because the side effects tend to be mild, and they have broad efficacy across many anxiety-related conditions. Common SSRIs include Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, and Celexa. Another class, SNRIs, like Cymbalta and Effexor XR, are also used for anxiety. However, it’s important to note that the safest medication depends on an individual’s unique needs and circumstances.
What medication is best for anxiety and depression?
SSRIs are commonly used to relieve depression and anxiety symptoms. Common SSRIs include Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, and Lexapro. SNRIs, like Cymbalta, can also be effective for both anxiety and depression. However, the “best” medication is subjective and depends on the individual’s symptoms, side effect tolerance, health insurance, existing physical and mental health conditions, and other factors.
Are antidepressants safe?
Antidepressants are generally considered safe when taken as prescribed and under the guidance of a medical professional. However, like other medicines, they can have side effects. Maintaining open communication with a healthcare provider ensures the safest use of antidepressants.
What is the happiness drug for depression?
There isn’t one “happiness drug” or “happy pill” for depression, but many people refer to SSRIs as “happy pills.” It’s important to note that there may not be a “cure-all” method for every symptom or condition, and there isn’t one type of medication that works for everyone. It’s important to speak to a medical professional to determine which medication is best for helping you reach your goals.
Which antidepressants are best for sadness?
SSRIs, like Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro, are commonly prescribed to treat symptoms of sadness and clinical depression. However, the best antidepressant for a person’s sadness will depend on their specific circumstances.
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