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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 96 (from laksa109)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa096.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://share.upmc.com/2025/07/antidepressants-different-types/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://share.upmc.com/2025/07/antidepressants-different-types/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2025\/07\/antidepressants-different-types\/","crawl_time":1776203795,"first_indexed_time":1752012774,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,upmc!share,\/2025\/07\/antidepressants-different-types\/ s443","src_root_hash":"12741625226546234896","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants? | UPMC HealthBeat","meta_descriptions":["Depression affects millions and is often treated with antidepressants. Learn about the different types of antidepressants and what your doctor may recommend."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Depression\nis more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better.\nFor many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations.\nEach year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the\nNational Institute of Mental Health.\nDoctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and\ntalk therapy\n.\nHow Do You Know You Need Antidepressants?\nDoctors and other professionals do a\nmental health screening\nbefore prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history.\nWhat are the symptoms of depression?\nDepressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have:\nChanges in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain.\nFatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy\n.\nFeelings of hopelessness or negativity about life.\nFeelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness.\nHeadaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment.\nIrritability, frustration, and restlessness.\nLoss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed.\nProblems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.\nProblems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping.\nThoughts of death or\nsuicide\n, or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts,\ncall, text, or chat 988\nto reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.)\nMental Health America also has an\nonline depression test\n. You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms.\nWhat Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?\nAntidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain.\nThe following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants.\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors\nSSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain.\nDoctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues.\nFluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram.\nBut studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring.\nSerotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors\nSNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain.\nNorepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors\nNDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine.\nSSRI vs. SNRI\nWhether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you.\nAre There Other Depression Medications?\nOlder depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants.\nEsketamine for treatment-resistant depression\nSometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants.\nEsketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists.\nYou need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression.\nEsketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction.\nBrexanolone for postpartum depression\nAdults who struggle with\npostpartum depression\nmay receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator.\nIt’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care.\nAre Antidepressants Safe to Take?\nAntidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects.\nWhat are common side effects of antidepressants?\nAmong the newer antidepressants, common side effects include:\nAnxiety.\nChanges in appetite.\nDizziness.\nDrowsiness.\nDry mouth.\nGastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach.\nHeadache.\nSexual dysfunction.\nShaking.\nSleep problems.\nSweating.\nWeight changes, often weight gain.\nWhat are the risks of antidepressants?\nAntidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a\nblack box warning\n. This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25.\nAlways tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition.\nIf you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant.\nWhat is the safest antidepressant?\nHow you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you.\nIs It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants?\nStopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take.\nAntidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks.\nNever stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely.\nWhen Will I Start to Feel Better?\nYou need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner.\nWhether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health.\nSources\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression\nNIH.gov\nUpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/image?imageKey=PSYCH\/89994\nUpToDate.com\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/depression\nNIH.gov\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications#part_2358\nNIH.gov\nStatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/\nNIH.gov\nNeurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34698218\/\nNIH.gov\nMarch of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.marchofdimes.org\/our-work\/research\/blog\/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc\nMarchOfDimes.org\nU.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/womens-health-topics\/depression-medicines#NMDA\nFDA.gov\nUpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics\/print\nUpToDate.com\nAmerican Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2020\/04\/stop-antidepressants\nAPA.org","attrs_markdown":"[![UPMC HealthBeat](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/UPMC-logo_Health-Beat-200x29.png.webp)](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/ \"UPMC HealthBeat\")\n\nMenu Close Close\n\nBack\n\n- [Living and WellnessLiving and Wellness](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/ \"Living and Wellness\")\n  - [Family HealthFamily Health](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/family-health\/ \"Family Health\")\n  - [FitnessFitness](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/fitness\/ \"Fitness\")\n  - [LGBTQIA+ HealthLGBTQIA+ Health](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/lgbtq-health\/ \"LGBTQIA+ Health\")\n  - [Men's HealthMen’s Health](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/men-health\/ \"Men's Health\")\n  - [New Here: Young Adult HealthNew Here: Young Adult 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Health\")\n  - [Sports MedicineSports Medicine](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/health-topics-a-z\/sports-medicine\/ \"Sports Medicine\")\n    - [ConcussionConcussion](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/concussion\/ \"Concussion\")\n  - [TransplantTransplant](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/health-topics-a-z\/transplant\/ \"Transplant\")\n    - [Liver TransplantLiver Transplant](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/health-topics-a-z\/transplant\/liver-transplant\/ \"Liver Transplant\")\n    - [Kidney TransplantKidney Transplant](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/health-topics-a-z\/transplant\/kidney-transplant\/ \"Kidney Transplant\")\n  - [UrologyUrology](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/health-topics-a-z\/urology\/ \"Urology\")\n- [MoreMore](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2025\/07\/antidepressants-different-types\/ \"More\")\n  - [UPMC HealthBeat en EspañolUPMC HealthBeat en Español](https:\/\/es-share.upmc.com\/ \"UPMC HealthBeat en Español\")\n  - [UPMC StoriesUPMC Stories](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/upmc-stories\/ \"UPMC Stories\")\n\n- [Like and Follow UPMC on Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/upmc \"Like and Follow UPMC on Facebook\")\n- [Follow UPMC on X (formerly Twitter)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/UPMC \"Follow UPMC on X (formerly Twitter)\")\n- [Follow UPMC on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/upmc\/ \"Follow UPMC on Pinterest\")\n- [Follow UPMC on Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/upmchealthbeat\/ \"Follow UPMC on Instagram\")\n- [Follow UPMC on LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/upmc \"Follow UPMC on LinkedIn\")\n- [Follow UPMC HealthBeat on TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@upmchealthbeat \"Follow UPMC HealthBeat on TikTok\")\n\n- [Find a DoctorFind a Doctor](https:\/\/providers.upmc.com\/ \"Find a Doctor\")\n- [Request AppointmentRequest Appointment](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/contact\/appointments \"Request Appointment\")\n- [About UPMC HealthBeatEditorial Policy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/about-healthbeat\/ \"About UPMC HealthBeat\")\n- [Our NewslettersOur Newsletters](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/ \"Our Newsletters\")\n- [Visit UPMC.comVisit UPMC.com](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/ \"Visit UPMC.com\")\n\n[UPMC HealthBeat en español](https:\/\/es-share.upmc.com\/)\n\n## [Family Health](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/category\/wellness\/family-health\/)\n# What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?\nJuly 4, 2025\n\n5 Minute Read\n\nReviewed by\n\n![Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/SALLAVANTI_ANDREW_DO_FP_20240604-100x100.jpg)\n\n![Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/SALLAVANTI_ANDREW_DO_FP_20240604-100x100.jpg)\n\n[Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https:\/\/providers.upmc.com\/provider\/andrew-sallavanti\/3049846)\n\nFamily Medicine\n\n![](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/GettyImages-1471949524-e1751050251106-1142x493.jpg)\n\nShare this on:[![Facebook](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_facebook_32.png)![Facebook](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_facebook_32.png)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-f \"Share on Facebook\")[![LinkedIn](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_linkedin_32.png)![LinkedIn](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_linkedin_32.png)](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/sharing\/share-offsite\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-l \"Share on LinkedIn\")[![Pinterest](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_pinterest_32.png)![Pinterest](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_pinterest_32.png)](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-p&media=https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/GettyImages-1471949524-e1751050251106.jpg&description=What+Are+the+Different+Types+of+Antidepressants%3F \"Share on Pinterest\")[![X (formerly Twitter)](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_x_twitter_32.png)![X (formerly Twitter)](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_x_twitter_32.png)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-t&text=What+Are+the+Different+Types+of+Antidepressants%3F&via=UPMC&related=UPMC%2CUPMCnews%2CUPMCMyHealth&original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com \"Share on X (formerly Twitter)\")[![Email](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_email_32.png)![Email](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_email_32.png)](<mailto:?subject=I%20thought%20you%20might%20like%20this%20article%3A%20What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?&body=Depression%20affects%20millions%20and%20is%20often%20treated%20with%20antidepressants.%20Learn%20about%20the%20different%20types%20of%20antidepressants%20and%20what%20your%20doctor%20may%20recommend.%20https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-e> \"Forward via email\")[![Copy URL](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_link_32.png)![Copy URL](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/plugins\/socialized\/assets\/images\/icon_link_32.png)](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/vuhr8k1x-c \"Copy to clipboard\") Copied\\!\n\n[Depression](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/services\/primary-care\/conditions\/depression) is more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better.\n\nFor many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations.\n\nEach year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the [National Institute of Mental Health.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression) Doctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and [talk therapy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2019\/06\/types-of-therapy\/ \"talk therapy\").\n\n## How Do You Know You Need Antidepressants?\nDoctors and other professionals do a [mental health screening](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2023\/11\/depression-screening\/#:~:text=Symptoms%20of%20depression%20include%3A,irritable%2C%20frustrated%2C%20or%20restless.) before prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history.\n\n### What are the symptoms of depression?\nDepressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have:\n\n- Changes in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain.\n- [Fatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2020\/10\/fatigue-and-depression\/ \"Fatigue, tiredness or decreased energy.\").\n- Feelings of hopelessness or negativity about life.\n- Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness.\n- Headaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment.\n- Irritability, frustration, and restlessness.\n- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed.\n- Problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.\n- Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping.\n- Thoughts of death or [suicide](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2014\/08\/suicide-awareness-prevention\/ \"suicide\"), or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts, [call, text, or chat 988](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/ \"call, text or chat to 988\") to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.)\n\nMental Health America also has an [online depression test](https:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/screening-tools\/depression\/). You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms.\n\n## Never Miss a Beat\\!\n### Subscribe to Our HealthBeat Newsletter\\!\n(Tap to Join!)(Click to Join!)\n\nI understand that by providing my email address, I agree to receive emails from UPMC. I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time.\n\nThank you for subscribing\\!\n\n[You can now select the specific newsletters you'd like to receive](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nYou are already subscribed.\n\n[Subscribe to more newsletters in our email preference center](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nSorry, an error occurred. Please try again later.\n\n[Or try our email preference center instead](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n### Get Healthy Tips Sent to Your Phone\\!\n## What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?\nAntidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain.\n\nThe following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants.\n\n### Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors\nSSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain.\n\nDoctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues.\n\nFluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram.\n\nBut studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring.\n\n### Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors\nSNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain.\n\n### Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors\nNDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine.\n\n### SSRI vs. SNRI\nWhether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you.\n\n## Are There Other Depression Medications?\nOlder depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants.\n\n### Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression\nSometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants.\n\nEsketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists.\n\nYou need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression.\n\nEsketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction.\n\n### Brexanolone for postpartum depression\nAdults who struggle with [postpartum depression](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2022\/07\/postpartum-depression\/) may receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator.\n\nIt’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care.\n\n## Are Antidepressants Safe to Take?\nAntidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects.\n\n### What are common side effects of antidepressants?\nAmong the newer antidepressants, common side effects include:\n\n- Anxiety.\n- Changes in appetite.\n- Dizziness.\n- Drowsiness.\n- Dry mouth.\n- Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach.\n- Headache.\n- Sexual dysfunction.\n- Shaking.\n- Sleep problems.\n- Sweating.\n- Weight changes, often weight gain.\n### What are the risks of antidepressants?\nAntidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a [black box warning](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2025\/05\/medication-boxed-warning\/ \"black box warning\"). This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25.\n\nAlways tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition.\n\nIf you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant.\n\n### What is the safest antidepressant?\nHow you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you.\n\n## Is It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants?\nStopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take.\n\nAntidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks.\n\nNever stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely.\n\n## When Will I Start to Feel Better?\nYou need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner.\n\nWhether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health.\n\n## Sources\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/ \" Link.\")\n\nUpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/image?imageKey=PSYCH\/89994 [UpToDate.com](https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/ \"Link.\")\n\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/depression [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/)\n\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications\\#part\\_2358 [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/ \"Link. \")\n\nStatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/ [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/ \"NIH\")\n\nNeurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34698218\/ [NIH.gov](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/ \"Link.\")\n\nMarch of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.marchofdimes.org\/our-work\/research\/blog\/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc [MarchOfDimes.org](https:\/\/www.marchofdimes.org\/ \"Link. \")\n\nU.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/womens-health-topics\/depression-medicines\\#NMDA [FDA.gov](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/ \"Link. \")\n\nUpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics\/print [UpToDate.com](https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/ \"Link. \")\n\nAmerican Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2020\/04\/stop-antidepressants [APA.org](https:\/\/www.apa.org\/ \" Link\")\n\n## Connect with UPMC\n[Find a Doctor](https:\/\/providers.upmc.com\/)\n\n[Patient Portal](https:\/\/myupmc.upmc.com\/)\n\n[Request Appointment](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/contact\/appointments)\n\n## About [UPMC](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/)\nHeadquartered in Pittsburgh, [UPMC](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/) is a world-renowned health care provider and insurer. We operate 40 hospitals and 800 doctors’ offices and outpatient centers, with locations throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, West Virginia, and internationally. We employ 4,900 physicians, and we are leaders in clinical care, groundbreaking research, and treatment breakthroughs. *U.S. News & World Report* consistently ranks UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside as one of the nation’s best hospitals in many specialties.\n\n## Never Miss a Beat\\!\n### Subscribe to our HealthBeat Newsletter.\nEnter your email to subscribe to our free health and wellness email list.\n\nI understand that by providing my email address, I agree to receive emails from UPMC. I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time.\n\nThank you for subscribing\\!\n\n[You can now select the specific newsletters you'd like to receive](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nYou are already subscribed.\n\n[Subscribe to more newsletters in our email preference center](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nSorry, an error occurred. Please try again later.\n\n[Or try our email preference center instead](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\n[![UPMC HealthBeat](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/UPMC-logo_Health-Beat-200x29.png.webp)![UPMC HealthBeat](https:\/\/share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/UPMC-logo_Health-Beat-200x29.png.webp)](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/ \"UPMC HealthBeat\")\n\n- [Find a DoctorFind a Doctor](https:\/\/providers.upmc.com\/ \"Find a Doctor\")\n- [Patient PortalPatient Portal](https:\/\/myupmc.upmc.com\/ \"Patient Portal\")\n- [Request an AppointmentRequest an Appointment](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/contact\/appointments \"Request an Appointment\")\n- [UPMC Health PlanUPMC Health Plan](https:\/\/www.upmchealthplan.com\/ \"UPMC Health Plan\")\n- [Find UPMC LocationsFind UPMC Locations](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/locations \"Find UPMC Locations\")\n- [Our Clinical ServicesOur Clinical Services](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/Services \"Our Clinical Services\")\n- [Editorial PolicyEditorial Policy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/about-healthbeat\/ \"Editorial Policy\")\n- [nofollowSitemap](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/sitemap\/ \"nofollow\")\n\n## My Location\n0\n## Follow Us\n- [Like and Follow UPMC on Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/upmc \"Like and Follow UPMC on Facebook\")\n- [Follow UPMC on X (formerly Twitter)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/UPMC \"Follow UPMC on X (formerly Twitter)\")\n- [Follow UPMC on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/upmc\/ \"Follow UPMC on Pinterest\")\n- [Follow UPMC on Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/upmchealthbeat\/ \"Follow UPMC on Instagram\")\n- [Follow UPMC on LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/upmc \"Follow UPMC on LinkedIn\")\n- [Follow UPMC HealthBeat on TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@upmchealthbeat \"Follow UPMC HealthBeat on TikTok\")\n\nUPMC HealthBeat is the publishing website for UPMC, an integrated health care system based in Pittsburgh. Our team strives for editorial integrity. Articles published on this site go through several rounds of review before publishing, including a clinical review conducted by UPMC medical experts. [More on our editorial policy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/about-healthbeat\/).\n\n- [ContactContact](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/contact \"Contact\")\n- [UPMC Website\/Email Terms of UseUPMC Website\/Email Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/patients-visitors\/privacy-info\/terms-of-use \"UPMC Website\/Email Terms of Use\")\n- [Medical Advice DisclaimerMedical Advice Disclaimer](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/patients-visitors\/privacy-info\/terms-of-use \"Medical Advice Disclaimer\")\n- [Privacy InformationPrivacy Information](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/patients-visitors\/privacy-info \"Privacy Information\")\n\n© 2026 [UPMC HealthBeat](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/)\n\n### Become a Member of Our Health and Wellness Email List\n(Tap to Join!)(Click to Join!)\n\nI understand that by providing my email address, I agree to receive emails from UPMC. I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time.\n\nThank you for subscribing\\!\n\n[You can now select the specific newsletters you'd like to receive](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nYou are already subscribed.\n\n[Subscribe to more newsletters in our email preference center](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\nSorry, an error occurred. Please try again later.\n\n[Or try our email preference center instead](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/email-preferences\/).\n\n![]() ![]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"[Depression](https:\/\/www.upmc.com\/services\/primary-care\/conditions\/depression) is more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better.\n\nFor many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations.\n\nEach year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the [National Institute of Mental Health.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression) Doctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and [talk therapy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2019\/06\/types-of-therapy\/ \"talk therapy\").\n\n## How Do You Know You Need Antidepressants?\nDoctors and other professionals do a [mental health screening](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2023\/11\/depression-screening\/#:~:text=Symptoms%20of%20depression%20include%3A,irritable%2C%20frustrated%2C%20or%20restless.) before prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history.\n\n### What are the symptoms of depression?\nDepressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have:\n\n- Changes in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain.\n- [Fatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2020\/10\/fatigue-and-depression\/ \"Fatigue, tiredness or decreased energy.\").\n- Feelings of hopelessness or negativity about life.\n- Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness.\n- Headaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment.\n- Irritability, frustration, and restlessness.\n- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed.\n- Problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.\n- Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping.\n- Thoughts of death or [suicide](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2014\/08\/suicide-awareness-prevention\/ \"suicide\"), or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts, [call, text, or chat 988](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/ \"call, text or chat to 988\") to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.)\n\nMental Health America also has an [online depression test](https:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/screening-tools\/depression\/). You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms.\n\n## What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?\nAntidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain.\n\nThe following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants.\n\n### Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors\nSSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain.\n\nDoctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues.\n\nFluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram.\n\nBut studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring.\n\n### Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors\nSNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain.\n\n### Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors\nNDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine.\n\n### SSRI vs. SNRI\nWhether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you.\n\n## Are There Other Depression Medications?\nOlder depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants.\n\n### Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression\nSometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants.\n\nEsketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists.\n\nYou need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression.\n\nEsketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction.\n\n### Brexanolone for postpartum depression\nAdults who struggle with [postpartum depression](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2022\/07\/postpartum-depression\/) may receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator.\n\nIt’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care.\n\n## Are Antidepressants Safe to Take?\nAntidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects.\n\n### What are common side effects of antidepressants?\nAmong the newer antidepressants, common side effects include:\n\n- Anxiety.\n- Changes in appetite.\n- Dizziness.\n- Drowsiness.\n- Dry mouth.\n- Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach.\n- Headache.\n- Sexual dysfunction.\n- Shaking.\n- Sleep problems.\n- Sweating.\n- Weight changes, often weight gain.\n### What are the risks of antidepressants?\nAntidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a [black box warning](https:\/\/share.upmc.com\/2025\/05\/medication-boxed-warning\/ \"black box warning\"). This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25.\n\nAlways tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition.\n\nIf you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant.\n\n### What is the safest antidepressant?\nHow you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you.\n\n## Is It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants?\nStopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take.\n\nAntidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks.\n\nNever stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely.\n\n## When Will I Start to Feel Better?\nYou need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner.\n\nWhether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health.\n\n## Sources\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/ \" Link.\")\n\nUpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/image?imageKey=PSYCH\/89994 [UpToDate.com](https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/ \"Link.\")\n\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/depression [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/)\n\nNational Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications\\#part\\_2358 [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/ \"Link. \")\n\nStatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/ [NIH.gov](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/ \"NIH\")\n\nNeurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34698218\/ [NIH.gov](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/ \"Link.\")\n\nMarch of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.marchofdimes.org\/our-work\/research\/blog\/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc [MarchOfDimes.org](https:\/\/www.marchofdimes.org\/ \"Link. \")\n\nU.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/womens-health-topics\/depression-medicines\\#NMDA [FDA.gov](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/ \"Link. \")\n\nUpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/contents\/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics\/print [UpToDate.com](https:\/\/www.uptodate.com\/ \"Link. \")\n\nAmerican Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2020\/04\/stop-antidepressants [APA.org](https:\/\/www.apa.org\/ \" Link\")","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants? \| UPMC HealthBeat
Meta Description	Depression affects millions and is often treated with antidepressants. Learn about the different types of antidepressants and what your doctor may recommend.
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Boilerpipe Text	Depression is more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better. For many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations. Each year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Doctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and talk therapy . How Do You Know You Need Antidepressants? Doctors and other professionals do a mental health screening before prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history. What are the symptoms of depression? Depressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have: Changes in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain. Fatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy . Feelings of hopelessness or negativity about life. Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness. Headaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment. Irritability, frustration, and restlessness. Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed. Problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping. Thoughts of death or suicide , or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts, call, text, or chat 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.) Mental Health America also has an online depression test . You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms. What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants? Antidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain. The following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain. Doctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues. Fluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram. But studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors SNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain. Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors NDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. SSRI vs. SNRI Whether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you. Are There Other Depression Medications? Older depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants. Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression Sometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants. Esketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. You need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression. Esketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction. Brexanolone for postpartum depression Adults who struggle with postpartum depression may receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator. It’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care. Are Antidepressants Safe to Take? Antidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects. What are common side effects of antidepressants? Among the newer antidepressants, common side effects include: Anxiety. Changes in appetite. Dizziness. Drowsiness. Dry mouth. Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach. Headache. Sexual dysfunction. Shaking. Sleep problems. Sweating. Weight changes, often weight gain. What are the risks of antidepressants? Antidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a black box warning . This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25. Always tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition. If you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant. What is the safest antidepressant? How you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you. Is It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants? Stopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take. Antidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks. Never stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely. When Will I Start to Feel Better? You need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner. Whether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health. Sources National Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression NIH.gov UpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/image?imageKey=PSYCH/89994 UpToDate.com National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression NIH.gov National Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications#part_2358 NIH.gov StatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ NIH.gov Neurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34698218/ NIH.gov March of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.marchofdimes.org/our-work/research/blog/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc MarchOfDimes.org U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/depression-medicines#NMDA FDA.gov UpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print UpToDate.com American Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/stop-antidepressants APA.org
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July 4, 2025 5 Minute Read Reviewed by ![Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SALLAVANTI_ANDREW_DO_FP_20240604-100x100.jpg) ![Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SALLAVANTI_ANDREW_DO_FP_20240604-100x100.jpg) [Andrew Sallavanti, DO](https://providers.upmc.com/provider/andrew-sallavanti/3049846) Family Medicine ![](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/GettyImages-1471949524-e1751050251106-1142x493.jpg) Share this on:[![Facebook](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_facebook_32.png)![Facebook](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_facebook_32.png)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-f "Share on Facebook")[![LinkedIn](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_linkedin_32.png)![LinkedIn](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_linkedin_32.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-l "Share on LinkedIn")[![Pinterest](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_pinterest_32.png)![Pinterest](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_pinterest_32.png)](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-p&media=https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/GettyImages-1471949524-e1751050251106.jpg&description=What+Are+the+Different+Types+of+Antidepressants%3F "Share on Pinterest")[![X (formerly Twitter)](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_x_twitter_32.png)![X (formerly Twitter)](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_x_twitter_32.png)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-t&text=What+Are+the+Different+Types+of+Antidepressants%3F&via=UPMC&related=UPMC%2CUPMCnews%2CUPMCMyHealth&original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com "Share on X (formerly Twitter)")[![Email](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_email_32.png)![Email](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_email_32.png)](<mailto:?subject=I%20thought%20you%20might%20like%20this%20article%3A%20What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants?&body=Depression%20affects%20millions%20and%20is%20often%20treated%20with%20antidepressants.%20Learn%20about%20the%20different%20types%20of%20antidepressants%20and%20what%20your%20doctor%20may%20recommend.%20https%3A%2F%2Fshare.upmc.com%2Fvuhr8k1x-e> "Forward via email")[![Copy URL](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_link_32.png)![Copy URL](https://share-cdn-prod.azureedge.net/wp-content/plugins/socialized/assets/images/icon_link_32.png)](https://share.upmc.com/vuhr8k1x-c "Copy to clipboard") Copied\! [Depression](https://www.upmc.com/services/primary-care/conditions/depression) is more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better. For many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations. Each year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the [National Institute of Mental Health.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression) Doctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and [talk therapy](https://share.upmc.com/2019/06/types-of-therapy/ "talk therapy"). ## How Do You Know You Need Antidepressants? Doctors and other professionals do a [mental health screening](https://share.upmc.com/2023/11/depression-screening/#:~:text=Symptoms%20of%20depression%20include%3A,irritable%2C%20frustrated%2C%20or%20restless.) before prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history. ### What are the symptoms of depression? Depressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have: - Changes in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain. - [Fatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy](https://share.upmc.com/2020/10/fatigue-and-depression/ "Fatigue, tiredness or decreased energy."). - Feelings of hopelessness or negativity about life. - Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness. - Headaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment. - Irritability, frustration, and restlessness. - Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed. - Problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. - Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping. - Thoughts of death or [suicide](https://share.upmc.com/2014/08/suicide-awareness-prevention/ "suicide"), or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts, [call, text, or chat 988](https://988lifeline.org/ "call, text or chat to 988") to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.) Mental Health America also has an [online depression test](https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/depression/). You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms. ## Never Miss a Beat\! ### Subscribe to Our HealthBeat Newsletter\! (Tap to Join!)(Click to Join!) I understand that by providing my email address, I agree to receive emails from UPMC. I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time. Thank you for subscribing\! [You can now select the specific newsletters you'd like to receive](https://share.upmc.com/email-preferences/). You are already subscribed. [Subscribe to more newsletters in our email preference center](https://share.upmc.com/email-preferences/). Sorry, an error occurred. Please try again later. [Or try our email preference center instead](https://share.upmc.com/email-preferences/). ### Get Healthy Tips Sent to Your Phone\! ## What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants? Antidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain. The following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants. ### Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain. Doctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues. Fluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram. But studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring. ### Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors SNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain. ### Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors NDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. ### SSRI vs. SNRI Whether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you. ## Are There Other Depression Medications? Older depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants. ### Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression Sometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants. Esketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. You need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression. Esketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction. ### Brexanolone for postpartum depression Adults who struggle with [postpartum depression](https://share.upmc.com/2022/07/postpartum-depression/) may receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator. It’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care. ## Are Antidepressants Safe to Take? Antidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects. ### What are common side effects of antidepressants? Among the newer antidepressants, common side effects include: - Anxiety. - Changes in appetite. - Dizziness. - Drowsiness. - Dry mouth. - Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach. - Headache. - Sexual dysfunction. - Shaking. - Sleep problems. - Sweating. - Weight changes, often weight gain. ### What are the risks of antidepressants? Antidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a [black box warning](https://share.upmc.com/2025/05/medication-boxed-warning/ "black box warning"). This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25. Always tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition. If you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant. ### What is the safest antidepressant? How you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you. ## Is It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants? Stopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take. Antidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks. Never stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely. ## When Will I Start to Feel Better? You need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner. Whether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health. ## Sources National Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ " Link.") UpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/image?imageKey=PSYCH/89994 [UpToDate.com](https://www.uptodate.com/ "Link.") National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/) National Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications\#part\_2358 [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ "Link. ") StatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ [NIH.gov](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ "NIH") Neurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34698218/ [NIH.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ "Link.") March of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.marchofdimes.org/our-work/research/blog/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc [MarchOfDimes.org](https://www.marchofdimes.org/ "Link. ") U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/depression-medicines\#NMDA [FDA.gov](https://www.fda.gov/ "Link. ") UpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print [UpToDate.com](https://www.uptodate.com/ "Link. ") American Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/stop-antidepressants [APA.org](https://www.apa.org/ " Link") ## Connect with UPMC [Find a Doctor](https://providers.upmc.com/) [Patient Portal](https://myupmc.upmc.com/) [Request Appointment](https://www.upmc.com/contact/appointments) ## About [UPMC](https://www.upmc.com/) Headquartered in Pittsburgh, [UPMC](https://www.upmc.com/) is a world-renowned health care provider and insurer. 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Readable Markdown	[Depression](https://www.upmc.com/services/primary-care/conditions/depression) is more than just feeling down every now and then. It’s a medical condition that needs treatment to get better. For many people, depression can affect their quality of life. It can affect their ability to function at work, in school, and in social situations. Each year, more than 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode. That’s according to the [National Institute of Mental Health.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression) Doctors often treat depression with a combination of antidepressants and [talk therapy](https://share.upmc.com/2019/06/types-of-therapy/ "talk therapy"). ## How Do You Know You Need Antidepressants? Doctors and other professionals do a [mental health screening](https://share.upmc.com/2023/11/depression-screening/#:~:text=Symptoms%20of%20depression%20include%3A,irritable%2C%20frustrated%2C%20or%20restless.) before prescribing any medication. They also go over your mental health symptoms and your history. They review your mental health symptoms and your history. ### What are the symptoms of depression? Depressed, sad, or “empty” mood or loss of interest or pleasure lasting at least two weeks are some of the most common signs of a major depressive episode. You may also have: - Changes in appetite or unexpected weight loss or gain. - [Fatigue, tiredness, or decreased energy](https://share.upmc.com/2020/10/fatigue-and-depression/ "Fatigue, tiredness or decreased energy."). - Feelings of hopelessness or negativity about life. - Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness. - Headaches, muscle aches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear physical cause or that don’t improve with treatment. - Irritability, frustration, and restlessness. - Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed. - Problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. - Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping. - Thoughts of death or [suicide](https://share.upmc.com/2014/08/suicide-awareness-prevention/ "suicide"), or suicide attempts. (If you or someone you love has these thoughts, [call, text, or chat 988](https://988lifeline.org/ "call, text or chat to 988") to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.) Mental Health America also has an [online depression test](https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/depression/). You can use this as a first step to understanding your mental health. But always follow up with your doctor to ensure nothing else is causing your symptoms. ## What Are the Different Types of Antidepressants? Antidepressants are medications taken to treat depression. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain. The following — broken down into three main groups — are the most common antidepressants. Doctors prescribe these because they help improve a broad range of mental and behavioral health disorders. They are safe, effective, and have fewer side effects than older antidepressants. ### Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs are the most common antidepressant. That’s according to the National Library of Medicine. They stop the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin. This increases serotonin levels and activity in the brain. Doctors prescribe SSRIs for other mental health issues, too. These include eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They’re the most common antidepressants for pregnant women with mental health issues. Fluoxetine is the only depression medicine the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for children. The only FDA-approved medications to treat depression in teens are fluoxetine and escitalopram. But studies found that many medications are helpful for children and teens with depression. Mental health professionals may recommend other mental health medications to treat your child and teen, with careful monitoring. ### Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors SNRIs stop the reabsorption of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. This increases these neurotransmitters in the brain. ### Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors NDRIs stop the reabsorption of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. ### SSRI vs. SNRI Whether an SSRI or an SNRI is the better antidepressant varies from person to person. Consult with your doctor about finding out which is the best for you. ## Are There Other Depression Medications? Older depression medications include tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For some people, these may work best. But they may have more serious side effects than today’s common antidepressants. ### Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression Sometimes people develop treatment-resistant depression. That means their symptoms don’t improve after trying at least two different antidepressants. Esketamine therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. It’s in a class of drugs called N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. You need to go to a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital to get this therapy through a nasal spray. It starts to work in minutes to hours to lift mood and relieve symptoms of depression. Esketamine can cause dissociation — feeling like you’re having an out-of-body experience. To keep you safe, you have to stay at the treatment facility for up to two hours so doctors can monitor your reaction. ### Brexanolone for postpartum depression Adults who struggle with [postpartum depression](https://share.upmc.com/2022/07/postpartum-depression/) may receive brexanolone for treatment. Brexanolone is a neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-positive modulator. It’s a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion given over a total of 60 hours. It has the potential to cause extreme tiredness and loss of consciousness. You have to stay overnight in the hospital so doctors can monitor your care. ## Are Antidepressants Safe to Take? Antidepressants are safe to take for most people. Doctors often start people on low doses. They then increase the dose to reduce the chance of side effects. ### What are common side effects of antidepressants? Among the newer antidepressants, common side effects include: - Anxiety. - Changes in appetite. - Dizziness. - Drowsiness. - Dry mouth. - Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea or upset stomach. - Headache. - Sexual dysfunction. - Shaking. - Sleep problems. - Sweating. - Weight changes, often weight gain. ### What are the risks of antidepressants? Antidepressants don’t come without risks. SSRIs and other antidepressant medications have a [black box warning](https://share.upmc.com/2025/05/medication-boxed-warning/ "black box warning"). This is due to a possible increased risk of suicide in children and young adults up to age 25. Always tell your doctor about other mental health medications and supplements you take. Taking more than one medication that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a life-threatening condition. If you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, tell your doctor. Some antidepressants aren’t always safe to take while pregnant. ### What is the safest antidepressant? How you react to a medication is different from how someone else does. Doctors will look at other medical conditions you have and medications you take. This is how they figure out the safest antidepressant for you. ## Is It Dangerous to Suddenly Stop Taking Antidepressants? Stopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, it can cause serious or life-threatening side effects. How hard it is to get off an antidepressant depends on the half-life of the drug and the dose you take. Antidepressant withdrawal can cause dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause mood changes. These can include aggression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks. Never stop taking an antidepressant without talking to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication safely. ## When Will I Start to Feel Better? You need to take antidepressants for four to eight weeks to notice an improvement in your mood. Other symptoms, such as problems sleeping or concentrating, may improve sooner. Whether your doctor recommends an SSRI, an SNRI, or another antidepressant depends on your individual mental and physical health. ## Sources National Institute of Mental Health. Major Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ " Link.") UpToDate. DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/image?imageKey=PSYCH/89994 [UpToDate.com](https://www.uptodate.com/ "Link.") National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/) National Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications\#part\_2358 [NIH.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ "Link. ") StatPearls. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ [NIH.gov](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ "NIH") Neurology International. New Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Their Anesthetic and Analgesic Considerations. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34698218/ [NIH.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ "Link.") March of Dimes. Untreated Depression Increases Preterm Birth Risk, Not Antidepressants. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.marchofdimes.org/our-work/research/blog/antidepressants-dont-increase-risk-preterm-birth-untreated-depression-does-ucsf-prc [MarchOfDimes.org](https://www.marchofdimes.org/ "Link. ") U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Depression Medicines. Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/depression-medicines\#NMDA [FDA.gov](https://www.fda.gov/ "Link. ") UpToDate. Patient education: Depression treatment options for children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics). Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/depression-treatment-options-for-children-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print [UpToDate.com](https://www.uptodate.com/ "Link. ") American Psychological Association. How hard is it to stop antidepressants? Accessed April 30, 2025. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/stop-antidepressants [APA.org](https://www.apa.org/ " Link")
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