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, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). 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 consider medication or medical treatments to cope with the symptoms of depression while partaking in other forms of treatment, like therapy. Understanding antidepressants may help you understand whether you want to try this treatment format and discuss options with your doctor.
What is depression?
Understanding the symptoms of depression may help you understand what symptoms medications for the condition can target. Feeling sad or experiencing a negative frame of mind for a short time can be healthy and normal. However, clinical depression is different and causes moderate to severe functional difficulties. Disorders like major depressive disorder (major depression) last for two weeks or more, and 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 considered controlled substances. To be prescribed medication, individuals can speak to a doctor, like a psychiatrist, to determine what medication may work best for their 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. Medications do not “cure” mental illness but are often a temporary solution to symptom management. 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 cause significant symptom reduction. 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.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which medications or medical treatment options may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
Types of depression medications
Antidepressants are often recommended as the first option to treat depression. They are commonly prescribed alongside psychotherapy. When you attend therapy and take medications, the medication may manage your symptoms so you can focus on the lessons you're learning in therapy.
There are several types of antidepressants to discuss with your doctor. If one isn't working, your doctor might change the dose, go to a different medication in the same class, or try different types of antidepressants altogether.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac), increase levels of serotonin in the brain for those with low serotonin to reduce the impacts of depression. These medications were first used in the 1980s and are the most common class for depression.
The side effects of SSRIs may be considered milder and may include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, libido changes, and an upset stomach. While you may experience some of these effects during the early administration of the medication, your body may adjust to them over time.
SNRIs
SNRIs are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. SNRIs increase serotonin and the reuptake process of norepinephrine. They're a new depression medication compared to the other subcategories. side effects may be similar to the side effects of SSRIs, causing sexual challenges, an upset stomach, insomnia, fatigue, and dizziness for some individuals. Side effects can vary based on individual factors.
Tricyclic antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants were some of the first to be used as a treatment for clinical depression and may have higher risks. Side effects of tricyclic antidepressants may include changes in blood sugar levels, changes in blood pressure, dizziness, weight gain, dry mouth, and upset stomach. Talk to your doctor if you experience side effects from any medication.
Medications used with antidepressants
If antidepressants alone are not managing your symptoms, your doctor may recommend alternative or conjunctive treatments like the following.
Antipsychotic medication
The term "antipsychotic" does not necessarily mean antipsychotic medications are used only for psychosis. These medications are prescribed for various mental illnesses and challenges. These medications are often used to treat mood swings and mania. A combination of an antipsychotic and an antidepressant might sometimes be recommended 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
In some cases, stimulants are used for people with depression. Your doctor might have you try a medication or supplement that is, not typically used to manage depression. 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. In addition, some people may decide they do not want to take medication or have barriers to doing so. Feeling frustrated may not be uncommon if you don't see results immediately. When you begin medication for depression, follow your doctor’s 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 may help you cope when receiving 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 show effects, so don't raise the dosage yourself if you believe 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 your doctor asks you to take them with food, 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, and try not to give up on your medication if side effects appear. Stopping medication without consulting your doctor can lead to withdrawal effects which may sometimes be dangerous.
Your doctor may have medical advice about alleviating side effects if they occur and may be able to tell you whether a side effect is dangerous. In addition, notify your doctor if you are prescribed medication by another healthcare professional. Some medications have harmful interactions.
Don't mix substances
Do not mix alcohol, marijuana, or illicit substances with your depression meds. Some of the reactions could be damaging, and diluting your prescribed medication may make it not work as effectively. In some cases, mixing substances with medication can be lethal.
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 for mental disorders, including major depressive disorder and postpartum depression. 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
There are several antidepressant medications available in the United States, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). If you’re interested in trying medication, talk to your doctor about your options and develop a treatment plan. If your doctor thinks you can benefit from psychotherapy or you want to speak to a professional, you can also consider therapy for long-term personalized support.
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 are taking can all play a role. Work closely with healthcare providers to find the best depression meds for your unique circumstances.
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 medication categories 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 can depend on your individual circumstances. Some people may choose not to take medication, and medication is often a short-term solution used alongside other treatment methods. In cases of treatment-resistant depression, doctors may recommend other treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy.
What is the first medication of choice for depression?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often the initial recommended treatment medication for depression. These medications may regulate mood by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. However, while SSRIs are a common starting point work with a healthcare provider to determine if SSRIs or other antidepressants are the best medication for you.
What is the safest antidepressant?
The “safest” medication can vary based on individual health factors, potential medication and substance interactions, and specific concerns or conditions a person may have. SSRIs are often chosen by doctors 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. Traditional antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs often take several weeks to show their full effect. Work with your doctor to determine which medications are right for you.
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. However, 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. 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 medication for depression?
There isn’t one “happiness medication” or “happy pill” for depression, but some people refer to SSRIs as “happy pills.” In addition, there is no “cure-all” method for every symptom or condition, and there isn’t one type of medication that works for everyone. Speak to a medical professional to determine which medication is best for helping you reach your goals.
Which antidepressants are best for sadness?
SSRIs are commonly prescribed to treat symptoms of sadness and clinical depression. However, the best antidepressant for a person’s sadness can depend on their specific circumstances.
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