Medication
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Browse evidence-led DepressionForums guides in this section.
Antidepressants: Benefits, Risks and Monitoring
Antidepressants can help some people with moderate or severe depression. Choice should consider prior response, side effects, interactions, pregnancy, physical health, preference and withdrawal planning.
MedicationSSRIs for Depression
SSRIs are commonly used antidepressants. Benefits take time, early side effects and activation need review, and young people or anyone with worsening suicidal thoughts require close monitoring.
MedicationSNRIs for Depression
SNRIs affect serotonin and noradrenaline signaling. Blood pressure, side effects, interactions and withdrawal symptoms can influence whether they are suitable.
MedicationMirtazapine for Depression
Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that may affect sleep and appetite. Sedation, weight change, interactions and individual priorities should be discussed with the prescriber.
MedicationBupropion for Depression
Bupropion is used for depression in some countries and has a different side-effect profile from SSRIs. Seizure risk, eating disorders, anxiety, interactions and local approvals matter.
MedicationTricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants can be effective but have important side effects and overdose toxicity. Prescribing and monitoring should reflect cardiovascular health, interactions and suicide risk.
MedicationAntidepressant Side Effects
Side effects vary by medicine and person and can include gastrointestinal, sleep, sexual, emotional and activation effects. Sudden changes or severe reactions require clinical advice.
MedicationStopping Antidepressants Safely
Stopping too quickly can cause withdrawal symptoms that may resemble relapse. Tapering should be individualized with a prescriber, especially after long-term or high-dose use.
MedicationAntidepressants in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Medication decisions during pregnancy and breastfeeding balance untreated illness, prior response, medicine-specific evidence and family preference. Abrupt stopping can also carry risk.
MedicationAdderall and Depression
Stimulants can affect mood, sleep and appetite and may be prescribed for ADHD, not routine depression treatment. Crashes, misuse, interactions and bipolar symptoms need careful review.
MedicationKetamine and Esketamine for Depression
Ketamine-based treatments may be considered in selected treatment-resistant depression under medical supervision. Eligibility, monitoring, dissociation, blood pressure, misuse risk and maintenance plans matter.