Antidepressants: MedlinePlus

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itemscope itemprop="itemListElement" itemtype="http://schema.org/ListItem"> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/" itemprop="item"><span itemprop="name">Home</span></a> → <meta itemprop="position" content="1"/> </div> <div itemscope itemprop="itemListElement" itemtype="http://schema.org/ListItem"> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/healthtopics.html" itemprop="item"><span itemprop="name">Health Topics</span></a> → <meta itemprop="position" content="2"/> </div> <div> <span>Antidepressants</span> </div> </div> </div> <span class="page-url print-only">URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html</span> <div id="topic"> <article> <div class="page-info"> <div class="page-title syndicate"> <a id="start" name="start"></a> <h1 itemprop="name" class="with-also"> Antidepressants </h1> <span class="alsocalled">Also called: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, Tricyclic antidepressants</span> </div> <div class="page-actions"></div> </div> <div class="main"> <section id="toc-section"> <div id="table-of-contents"> <span class="toc-label">On this page</span> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>Basics</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a title="Go to: Summary" href="#summary">Summary</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Start Here" href="#cat_51">Start Here</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Diagnosis and Tests" href="#cat_92">Diagnosis and Tests</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Treatments and Therapies" href="#cat_78">Treatments and Therapies</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>Learn More</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a title="Go to: Living With" href="#cat_77">Living With</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Related Issues" href="#cat_47">Related Issues</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Specifics" href="#cat_42">Specifics</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Genetics" href="#cat_46">Genetics</a> </li> </ul> </div> <p class="evencols clearsection hrdividor"></p> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>See, Play and Learn</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li class="noinfo-subcat">No links available</li> </ul> </div> <p class="threecols clearsection hrdividor"></p> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>Research</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a title="Go to: Clinical Trials" href="#cat_27">Clinical Trials</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Journal Articles" href="#cat_59">Journal Articles</a> </li> </ul> </div> <p class="evencols clearsection hrdividor"></p> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>Resources</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a title="Go to: Find an Expert" href="#cat_83">Find an Expert</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="toccolumn"> <h3>For You</h3> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a title="Go to: Children" href="#cat_8">Children</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Women" href="#cat_7">Women</a> </li> <li> <a title="Go to: Patient Handouts" href="#cat_69">Patient Handouts</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="summary"></a> <section id="topsum_section"> <div class="summary-title syndicate"> <h2>Summary</h2> </div> <div id="topic-summary" class="syndicate"><h3>What are antidepressants?</h3> <p>Antidepressants are prescription medicines to treat depression. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/depression.html">Depression</a> is more than feeling a little sad or "blue" for a few days. It's a very common, serious medical illness that affects your mood and general <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/mentalhealth.html">mental health</a> It can make you feel tired, hopeless, worried, or fearful. It can change your thinking, sleeping, and eating. Depression may make some people think about ending their lives.</p> <p>But antidepressants can help many people who have depression. Researchers think antidepressants may help improve the way your brain uses certain chemicals that control mood or stress.</p> <h3>Are antidepressants used for other conditions?</h3> <p>A health care provider may prescribe antidepressants for <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/anxiety.html">anxiety</a>, <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/chronicpain.html">chronic pain</a>, or <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/insomnia.html">insomnia</a>. Sometimes providers also prescribe antidepressants for other conditions.</p> <h3>What are the different types of antidepressants?</h3> <p>There are many types of antidepressants. Each one works differently. Providers usually prescribe newer antidepressants first because they don't cause as many side effects as older types. They also seem to help more kinds of depression and anxiety problems.</p> <p>Most of the newer antidepressants belong to one of these three groups:</p> <ul> <li>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)</li> <li>Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)</li> <li>Atypical antidepressants, which are newer antidepressants that don't fit into the other groups</li> </ul> <p>If these antidepressants don't help, your provider might suggest one of the older antidepressants. The older types include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), tetracyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Even though these antidepressants may cause more serious side effects, the benefits may outweigh the risks for some people.</p> <h3>Which type of antidepressant is right for me?</h3> <p>Our bodies and brains all work differently. That means one antidepressant won't work for everyone. You may need to try two or more medicines before you find one that works for you.</p> <p>Your provider will work with you to choose the best option to try first. You'll consider questions such as:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Which symptoms bother you most?</strong> Some antidepressants may do a better job helping specific symptoms, such as trouble sleeping.</li> <li><strong>What other medicines and supplements do you take?</strong> Some antidepressants can cause problems if you take them with certain medicines and herbs.</li> <li><strong>Did a certain antidepressant work well for a close relative?</strong> An antidepressant that helped a parent, brother, or sister could be a good choice for you, too.</li> <li><strong>Do you have other health conditions?</strong> Certain antidepressants can make some other conditions better or worse. Any other conditions that you have will be part of choosing your depression treatment.</li> <li><strong>Are you pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or breastfeeding?</strong> If so, your provider will help you find a way to treat your depression that's safe for you and your baby.</li> </ul> <h3>How long do antidepressants take to work?</h3> <p>Antidepressants usually take 4 to 8 weeks to work, so you'll need to be patient. You may notice that some problems, such as sleeping and eating, get better before your mood improves. That's a good sign. You may just need to give the medicine a little more time to do its job.</p> <p>Sometimes an antidepressant helps at first, but symptoms return while you're still taking it. But there's usually another one you can try. To get more relief from depression, your provider may suggest combining two antidepressants, using another kind of medicine with an antidepressant, or adding talk therapy or other approaches <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/howtoimprovementalhealth.html">to improve your mental health</a>.</p> <h3>How long will I need to take an antidepressant?</h3> <p>When an antidepressant starts to work, you and your provider can decide how long you need to stay on it. The typical length of treatment is 6 to 12 months, but some people may stay on antidepressants for much longer.</p> <h3>What are the side effects of antidepressants?</h3> <p>Not everyone has side effects from antidepressants. But if you do have them, they're usually mild and may get better over time as your body gets used to the new medicine.</p> <p>The most common side effects from antidepressants include:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/nauseaandvomiting.html">Nausea and vomiting</a></li> <li>Weight gain</li> <li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/diarrhea.html">Diarrhea</a></li> <li>Sleepiness</li> <li>Sexual problems, such as a lack of desire or ability to have sex</li> </ul> <p>When thinking about side effects, it's important to remember that there are also risks from not treating depression. Your provider can help you think through the pros and cons of all your options.</p> <p>If you have any side effects from antidepressants, your provider may suggest ways to manage them while you wait to see if the antidepressant will work. If the side effects bother you too much, you may need to change antidepressants. But you should never change your dose or stop taking an antidepressant on your own.</p> <p>If you have serious problems or notice any changes that worry you, such as new or worsening symptoms, unusual changes in your mood, or you start acting differently, call your provider right away.</p> <p>In some cases, children, teenagers, and young adults under 25 may be more likely to think about hurting or killing themselves when starting antidepressants or when the dose is changed. Get medical help right away if this happens.</p> <h3>What can I do to take antidepressants safely?</h3> <p>Antidepressants are generally safe when you use them correctly:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Tell your provider about everything you take.</strong> That includes medicines, herbs, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines you take, such as pain relievers and decongestants. Be honest about <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druguseandaddiction.html">recreational drugs</a> and alcohol, too.</li> <li><strong>Try to get all your medicines from the same pharmacy.</strong> That way the pharmacist can warn you and your provider if you take medicines that may cause problems when used together.</li> <li><strong>Follow all instructions about how to take your medicine.</strong></li> <li><strong>Talk with your provider if side effects bother you.</strong></li> <li><strong>Never stop taking antidepressants without your provider's help.</strong> Stopping too fast may make depression come back. You could even make your condition worse. To stop antidepressants safely, you need to give your body time to get used to being without the medicine. Your provider can tell you the safest way to go off an antidepressant.</li> </ul> <p class="attribution">NIH: National Institute of Mental Health</p></div> </section> <a name="cat_51"></a> <section id="cat_51_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header expanded"> <div class="section-title syndicate"> <h2>Start Here </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section51" class="section-body expanded syndicate" aria-expanded="true"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/ART-20046273?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="13255" >Antidepressants: Selecting One That's Right for You</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046273?p=1" data-sid="128741">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://familydoctor.org/how-to-safely-take-antidepressants/?adfree=true" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="3010" >How to Safely Take Antidepressants</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (American Academy of Family Physicians)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://es.familydoctor.org/tipos-de-antidepresivos/?adfree=true" data-sid="58114">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="1846" data-org="NIMH">Mental Health Medications</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Institute of Mental Health)</span> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_92"></a> <section id="cat_92_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Diagnosis and Tests </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section92" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cyp450-test/about/pac-20393711?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="64089" >Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) Tests</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/tests-procedures/cyp450-test/about/pac-20393711?p=1" data-sid="132151">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pharmacogenetic-tests/" data-sid="132516" data-org="NLM">Pharmacogenetic Tests</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/pruebas-de-laboratorio/pruebas-farmacogeneticas/" data-sid="132527">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/tricyclic-antidepressant-tca-screen/" data-sid="151871" data-org="NLM">Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA) Screen</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/pruebas-de-laboratorio/prueba-de-antidepresivos-triciclicos/" data-sid="151892">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_78"></a> <section id="cat_78_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Treatments and Therapies </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section78" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/things-to-know-about-depression-and-complementary-health-approaches" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="106134" data-org="NCCIH">8 Things To Know about Depression and Complementary Health Approaches</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)</span> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/st-johns-wort-and-depression-in-depth" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="54078" data-org="NCCIH">St. John's Wort and Depression</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)</span> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_77"></a> <section id="cat_77_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Living With </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section77" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/maois/FAQ-20058035?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="48215" >MAOIs and Diet: Is It Necessary to Restrict Tyramine?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/maois/faq-20058035?p=1" data-sid="132146">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_47"></a> <section id="cat_47_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Related Issues </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section47" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressant-withdrawal/FAQ-20058133?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="112167" >Antidepressant Withdrawal: Is There Such a Thing?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressant-withdrawal/faq-20058133?p=1" data-sid="132147">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-alcohol/FAQ-20058231?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="89083" >Antidepressants and Alcohol: What's the Concern?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-alcohol/faq-20058231?p=1" data-sid="132076">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-weight-gain/FAQ-20058127?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="92170" >Antidepressants and Weight Gain: What Causes It?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-weight-gain/faq-20058127?p=1" data-sid="132126">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/pain-medications/ART-20045647?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="79547" >Antidepressants: Another Weapon against Chronic Pain</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/pain-medications/art-20045647?p=1" data-sid="130512">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants/FAQ-20057938?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="109662" >Antidepressants: Can They Stop Working?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants/faq-20057938?p=1" data-sid="132148">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/ART-20049305?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="99388" >Antidepressants: Get Tips to Cope with Side Effects</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20049305?p=1" data-sid="132149">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants/FAQ-20058104?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="72867" >Antidepressants: Which Cause the Fewest Sexual Side Effects?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants/faq-20058104?p=1" data-sid="132150">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/expert-answers/migraine-medications/FAQ-20058166?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="99389" >Migraine Medications and Antidepressants: A Risky Mix?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/expert-answers/migraine-medications/faq-20058166?p=1" data-sid="130760">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_42"></a> <section id="cat_42_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Specifics </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section42" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/atypical-antidepressants/ART-20048208?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="94499" >Atypical Antidepressants</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/atypical-antidepressants/art-20048208?p=1" data-sid="128742">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/maois/ART-20043992?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52013" >Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/maois/art-20043992?p=1" data-sid="132152">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/ART-20044825?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52015" >Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825?p=1" data-sid="132153">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/ART-20044970?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="54237" >Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20044970?p=1" data-sid="132154">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/ART-20046983?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="54241" >Tricyclic Antidepressants and Tetracyclic Antidepressants</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046983?p=1" data-sid="132155">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_46"></a> <section id="cat_46_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Genetics </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section46" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/depression" data-sid="131019" data-org="NLM">Depression: MedlinePlus Genetics</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_27"></a> <section id="cat_27_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Clinical Trials </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section27" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?intr=antidepressants&aggFilters=status:not%20rec" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="65131" data-org="NIH">ClinicalTrials.gov: Antidepressants</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Institutes of Health)</span> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?cond=%22Serotonin+and+Noradrenaline+Reuptake+Inhibitors%22&aggFilters=status:not%20rec" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="120221" data-org="NIH">ClinicalTrials.gov: Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> <span class="orgs"> (National Institutes of Health)</span> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_59"></a> <section id="cat_59_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Journal Articles <span class="subheading">References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)</span> </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section59" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39715042" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52005" >Article: Safety of BI 1358894 in patients with major depressive disorder: Results...</a> <span class="desc-text"> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39519521" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52005" >Article: The Efficacy of Omega-3 Fatty Acids as the Monotherapy for Depression:...</a> <span class="desc-text"> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39514643" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52005" >Article: Effect of Esketamine Nasal Spray on Cognition in Patients With Treatment-Resistant...</a> <span class="desc-text"> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=%22Antidepressive+Agents%22%5Bmajr%3Anoexp%5D+AND+humans%5Bmh%5D+AND+english%5Bla%5D+AND+%22last+1+Year%22+%5Bedat%5D+AND+%28patient+education+handout%5Bpt%5D+OR+guideline%5Bpt%5D+OR+clinical+trial%5Bpt%5D%29++NOT+%28letter%5Bpt%5D+OR+case+reports%5Bpt%5D+OR+editorial%5Bpt%5D+OR+comment%5Bpt%5D%29+AND+free+full+text%5Bsb%5D+" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="52005" >Antidepressants -- see more articles</a> <span class="desc-text"> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_83"></a> <section id="cat_83_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Find an Expert </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section83" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.nami.org/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="1609" >NAMI</a> <span class="desc-text"> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="533" data-org="NIMH">National Institute of Mental Health</a> <span class="desc-text"> <img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc"> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/espanol" data-sid="151807">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_8"></a> <section id="cat_8_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Children </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section8" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/teen-depression/in-depth/antidepressants/ART-20047502?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="49750" >Antidepressants for Children and Teens</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/teen-depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20047502?p=1" data-sid="128743">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_7"></a> <section id="cat_7_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Women </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section7" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046420?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="67667" >Antidepressants: Safe during Pregnancy?</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046420?p=1" data-sid="132156">Spanish</a> </span> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/depression-medicines" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="99874" >Depression Medicines</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Food and Drug Administration)</span> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <a name="cat_69"></a> <section id="cat_69_section"> <div class="section"> <div class="section-header"> <div class="section-title"> <h2>Patient Handouts </h2> </div> <div class="section-button"> <button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit"> <span class="icon icon-section-action"></span> </button> </div> <div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div> </div> <div id="section69" class="section-body"> <ul class="bulletlist"> <li> <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000570.htm" data-sid="105304" >Depression - stopping your medicines</a> <span class="desc-text"> <span class="orgs"> (Medical Encyclopedia)</span> </span> <span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/patientinstructions/000570.htm" data-sid="105312">Spanish</a> </span> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> </div> <div class="side"> <aside> <section id="ht-img-section"> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header hide-offscreen"> <h2>Topic Image</h2> </div> <div class="section-body no-header"> <img src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/AntidepressantsNew.jpg" title="Antidepressants" alt="Antidepressants" /> </div> </div> </section> <section id="encyclopedia-box"> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header red"> <h2>MEDICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA</h2> </div> <div id="more_encyclopedia" class="section-body"> <ul> <li><a data-sid="82523" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002645.htm">Amitriptyline and perphenazine overdose</a></li> <li><a data-sid="82518" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002631.htm">Amitriptyline hydrochloride overdose</a></li> <li><a data-sid="105304" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000570.htm">Depression - stopping your medicines</a></li> <li><a data-sid="82515" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002626.htm">Desipramine hydrochloride overdose</a></li> <li><a data-sid="82794" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002547.htm">Doxepin overdose</a></li> <li><a data-sid="82527" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002656.htm">Imipramine overdose</a></li> <li><a data-sid="83431" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007272.htm">Serotonin syndrome</a></li> <li><a data-sid="82797" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002559.htm">Trazodone overdose</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <section id="related-topics"> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header"> <h2>Related Health Topics</h2> </div> <div class="section-body"> <ul id="related"> <li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/depression.html">Depression</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <section id="primary-institute-section"> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header"> <h2>National Institutes of Health</h2> </div> <div class="section-body"> The primary NIH organization for research on <span class="italic">Antidepressants</span> is the <a href="http://www.nimh.nih.gov/" target="TheNewWin">National Institute of Mental Health</a> </div> </div> </section> <section id="magazine-box"> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header"> <h2>NIH MedlinePlus Magazine</h2> </div> <div id="more_magazine" class="section-body"> <ul> <li><a data-sid="142830" href="https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work" target="_blank">Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> <section> <div class="side-section"> <div class="section-header hide-offscreen"> <h2>Disclaimers</h2> </div> <div class="section-body no-header"> MedlinePlus links to health information from the National Institutes of Health and other federal government agencies. MedlinePlus also links to health information from non-government Web sites. See our <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/disclaimers.html">disclaimer</a> about external links and our <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/criteria.html">quality guidelines</a>. </div> </div> </section> </aside> </div> <div class="page-action-bottom"> <div class="page-actions"></div> </div> </article> </div> <p>The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. 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Learn about antidepressant side effect, the different types of antidepressants, and more.", "mainContentOfPage": "What are antidepressants?\u000AAntidepressants are prescription medicines to treat depression. Depression is more than feeling a little sad or \u0022blue\u0022 for a few days. It\u0027s a very common, serious medical illness that affects your mood and general mental health It can make you feel tired, hopeless, worried, or fearful. It can change your thinking, sleeping, and eating. Depression may make some people think about ending their lives.\u000ABut antidepressants can help many people who have depression. Researchers think antidepressants may help improve the way your brain uses certain chemicals that control mood or stress. \u000A\u000AAre antidepressants used for other conditions?\u000AA health care provider may prescribe antidepressants for anxiety, chronic pain, or insomnia. Sometimes providers also prescribe antidepressants for other conditions.\u000A\u000AWhat are the different types of antidepressants?\u000AThere are many types of antidepressants. Each one works differently. Providers usually prescribe newer antidepressants first because they don\u0027t cause as many side effects as older types. They also seem to help more kinds of depression and anxiety problems. \u000A\u000AMost of the newer antidepressants belong to one of these three groups: \u000A\u000ASelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) \u000ASerotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)\u000AAtypical antidepressants, which are newer antidepressants that don\u0027t fit into the other groups\u000A\u000AIf these antidepressants don\u0027t help, your provider might suggest one of the older antidepressants. The older types include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), tetracyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Even though these antidepressants may cause more serious side effects, the benefits may outweigh the risks for some people. \u000A\u000AWhich type of antidepressant is right for me?\u000AOur bodies and brains all work differently. That means one antidepressant won\u0027t work for everyone. You may need to try two or more medicines before you find one that works for you.\u000A\u000AYour provider will work with you to choose the best option to try first. You\u0027ll consider questions such as:\u000A\u000AWhich symptoms bother you most? Some antidepressants may do a better job helping specific symptoms, such as trouble sleeping.\u000AWhat other medicines and supplements do you take? Some antidepressants can cause problems if you take them with certain medicines and herbs. \u000ADid a certain antidepressant work well for a close relative? An antidepressant that helped a parent, brother, or sister could be a good choice for you, too. \u000ADo you have other health conditions? Certain antidepressants can make some other conditions better or worse. Any other conditions that you have will be part of choosing your depression treatment. \u000AAre you pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or breastfeeding? If so, your provider will help you find a way to treat your depression that\u0027s safe for you and your baby.\u000A\u000A\u000AHow long do antidepressants take to work?\u000AAntidepressants usually take 4 to 8 weeks to work, so you\u0027ll need to be patient. You may notice that some problems, such as sleeping and eating, get better before your mood improves. That\u0027s a good sign. You may just need to give the medicine a little more time to do its job. \u000ASometimes an antidepressant helps at first, but symptoms return while you\u0027re still taking it. But there\u0027s usually another one you can try. To get more relief from depression, your provider may suggest combining two antidepressants, using another kind of medicine with an antidepressant, or adding talk therapy or other approaches to improve your mental health. \u000A\u000AHow long will I need to take an antidepressant? \u000AWhen an antidepressant starts to work, you and your provider can decide how long you need to stay on it. The typical length of treatment is 6 to 12 months, but some people may stay on antidepressants for much longer. \u000A\u000AWhat are the side effects of antidepressants?\u000ANot everyone has side effects from antidepressants. But if you do have them, they\u0027re usually mild and may get better over time as your body gets used to the new medicine. \u000A\u000AThe most common side effects from antidepressants include:\u000A\u000ANausea and vomiting\u000AWeight gain\u000ADiarrhea\u000ASleepiness\u000ASexual problems, such as a lack of desire or ability to have sex\u000A\u000AWhen thinking about side effects, it\u0027s important to remember that there are also risks from not treating depression. Your provider can help you think through the pros and cons of all your options.\u000AIf you have any side effects from antidepressants, your provider may suggest ways to manage them while you wait to see if the antidepressant will work. If the side effects bother you too much, you may need to change antidepressants. But you should never change your dose or stop taking an antidepressant on your own. \u000AIf you have serious problems or notice any changes that worry you, such as new or worsening symptoms, unusual changes in your mood, or you start acting differently, call your provider right away. \u000AIn some cases, children, teenagers, and young adults under 25 may be more likely to think about hurting or killing themselves when starting antidepressants or when the dose is changed. Get medical help right away if this happens.\u000A\u000AWhat can I do to take antidepressants safely? \u000AAntidepressants are generally safe when you use them correctly:\u000A\u000ATell your provider about everything you take. That includes medicines, herbs, supplements, and over\u002Dthe\u002Dcounter medicines you take, such as pain relievers and decongestants. Be honest about recreational drugs and alcohol, too. \u000ATry to get all your medicines from the same pharmacy. That way the pharmacist can warn you and your provider if you take medicines that may cause problems when used together. \u000AFollow all instructions about how to take your medicine. \u000ATalk with your provider if side effects bother you. \u000ANever stop taking antidepressants without your provider\u0027s help. Stopping too fast may make depression come back. You could even make your condition worse. To stop antidepressants safely, you need to give your body time to get used to being without the medicine. Your provider can tell you the safest way to go off an antidepressant.\u000A\u000A\u000ANIH: National Institute of Mental Health", "primaryImageOfPage": { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https://medlineplus.gov/images/AntidepressantsNew.jpg" }, "url": "https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html" } ] </script> </body> </html>

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Antidepressants: MedlinePlus