Depression affects millions of people around the world, making it one of the most common mental health disorders.

A variety of treatments exist for depression, but antidepressants are often used as a first-line treatment option for moderate to severe depression. Antidepressants work by altering the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, and are surprisingly complex and varied medications. Here’s what you need to know about the surprising world of antidepressants.

Types of Antidepressants

There are several types of antidepressants, each with their own unique mechanisms of action and side effects. The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

These medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotion. SSRIs include medications like Prozac, Zoloft, and Celexa.

Another type of antidepressant is serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications increase the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation.

Examples of SNRIs include Cymbalta and Effexor.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are an older class of antidepressants that are less commonly used today due to their potential side effects.

TCAs work by increasing the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, and include medications like Elavil and Norpramin.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are the oldest class of antidepressants and are rarely used today due to potential interactions with other medications and foods.

MAOIs work by inhibiting the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Examples of MAOIs include Nardil and Parnate.

How Do Antidepressants Work?

The underlying cause of depression is still not completely understood, but it is thought to involve an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Antidepressants work by altering the balance of these chemicals in the brain, ultimately leading to improved mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms.

For example, SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, leading to an increase in the amount of serotonin in the brain. This increase in serotonin leads to changes in mood and behavior, and can help reduce depressive symptoms.

SNRIs work in a similar way, blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. This leads to an increase in the levels of both neurotransmitters in the brain, ultimately leading to improved mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms.

Side Effects of Antidepressants

Like all medications, antidepressants can cause side effects. The specific side effects of antidepressants can vary depending on the type and dosage of medication, as well as the individual taking the medication.

Common side effects of SSRIs and SNRIs include:.

Nausea
Headaches
Dry mouth
Insomnia
Dizziness
Sexual dysfunction

Tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs can cause more serious side effects, including:.

Weight gain
Drowsiness
Low blood pressure
Blurred vision
Confusion
Irregular heartbeat

It’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential side effects of antidepressant medication before starting treatment.

Antidepressants and Suicide Risk

There has been some concern in recent years about the link between antidepressant medication and an increased risk of suicide.

While the risk of suicide is always a concern in patients with depression, the risk does not appear to be significantly increased with antidepressant use.

In fact, it’s thought that the treatment of depression with antidepressant medication can actually reduce the risk of suicide, as untreated depression is a significant risk factor for suicide.

Taking Antidepressants

Antidepressants should always be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule, and to continue taking the medication even if you start to feel better.

Stopping antidepressant medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, so it’s important to work with your doctor to taper off the medication if needed.

It’s also important to avoid alcohol while taking antidepressant medication, as alcohol can interfere with the efficacy of the medication and increase the risk of side effects.

Conclusion

Antidepressants are a complex and varied class of medication, and are an important tool in the treatment of depression.

While they can cause side effects and may not work for everyone, they are often an effective treatment option for many people with depression. If you’re struggling with depressive symptoms, talk to your doctor to see if antidepressant medication could be right for you.