Antidepressants and how they work

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most prescribed type of are prescribed most often. Antidepressants are among the most searched medications on the internet. But there is a lot of information out there to sift through.

What are they? Antidepressants are prescribed for mood conditions such as depression and anxiety, as well as for pain and sleeping troubles. You may have to try a few different ones before you and your health provider find the best one for you.

How do they work? Antidepressants can help balance chemicals in our brains. This can lead to improved moods, concentration, and sleep. It may take a few weeks (often four to six) for these medications to fully work.

The most commonly prescribed SSRIs include: Fluoxetine; Citalopram; Sertraline; Paroxetine; and Escitalopram. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are similar to SSRIs.

Common ones include venlafaxine and duloxetine.

Bupropion works differently than SSRIs or SNRIs. It also treats seasonal affective disorder and helps people stop smoking.

Older antidepressant medications include tricyclics, tetracyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

They are prescribed less often than other medications because they tend to cause more side effects. However, they work better for some people.

Possible side effects: Nausea and vomiting; Weight gain; Diarrhoea; Sleepiness; and Sexual problems.