🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 79 (from laksa196)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa079.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://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants","crawl_time":1775053102,"first_indexed_time":1659268700,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,forhers!www,\/blog\/common-antidepressants s443","src_root_hash":"14475777380408463279","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"The Most Common Antidepressants | Take Care by Hers","meta_descriptions":["There are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common and how they work."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"If you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants. \nThese prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders. \nThat said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common.\nThe most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than\n21 million adults\nin the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year.\nSymptoms and\nsigns of depression\ninclude\nsadness and\nanxiety\n, irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication.\nWondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons. \nSerotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine\nare\na few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression.\nAntidepressants treat depression by\nincreasing\nlevels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious\nwhat do antidepressants feel like?\nOur guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants.\nThere are a few different\ntypes of antidepressants\n. The\nfirst antidepressant\napproved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects.\nTricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of\ntricyclic antidepressants\ninclude\nnortriptyline\nand\namitriptyline\n. Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often.\nBut enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common.\nSelective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (\nSSRIs\n) are the most\ncommon type\nof antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by\npreventing your brain cells\nfrom reabsorbing it.\nSome of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include: \nFluoxetine\nParoxetine\nEscitalopram\nSertraline\nYou may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects\ninclude\n:\nNausea\nLow libido or other issues with sex drive\nDiarrhea\nHeadaches\nDizziness\nDry mouth\nIncreased anxiety\nRx Available\nFeeling better is possible\nSerotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors\nAnother pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed. \nVenlafaxine\nand\nduloxetine\nare\ntwo common SNRIs\nthat are used to treat depression.\nCommon side effects associated with SNRIs include: \nNausea\nHeavy sweating\nConstipation\nSexual side effects\nInsomnia\nHeadaches\nDizziness\nAlong with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called\nbupropion\n(sold under the brand name\nWellbutrin\n®\n) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants.\nAntidepressants can work to\nreduce\nsymptoms of all kinds of\ndepression\n— including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression). \nA\nsystematic review from 2018\nlooked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21\ndifferent antidepressants\n. \nEvery single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos.\nWith this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for\ntreating your depression\n. And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed. \nSome people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms. \nIf you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by\nscheduling a consultation\nwith a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going\nback on antidepressants\n, knowing the possible side effects is useful information.\nOnce you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing.\nRelated Drug Comparisons\nAdderall vs. Lexapro\nCymbalta vs. Prozac\nBuspirone vs. Xanax\nCymbalta vs. Zoloft\nCymbalta vs. Lexapro\nLexapro vs. Prozac\nLexapro vs. Wellbutrin\nLexapro vs. Zoloft\nProzac vs. Zoloft\nSertraline vs. Zoloft\n14 Sources\nHims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.\nMajor Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression.shtml\nDepression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/depression-in-women\nHyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.cell.com\/current-biology\/comments\/S0960-9822(05)00208-3\nWhat causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/mind-and-mood\/what-causes-depression\nAntidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/antidepressants.html\nCommonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/magazine.medlineplus.gov\/article\/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work\nChu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/\nDepression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines\nSansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4008300\/\nMental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications\nAtypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/content\/atypical-antidepressants\/\nDepression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK361016\/\nCipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from\nhttps:\/\/www.thelancet.com\/journals\/lancet\/article\/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7\/fulltext\nGarcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory.\nhttps:\/\/www.jax.org\/news-and-insights\/jax-blog\/2015\/december\/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression","attrs_markdown":"- [All](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog)\n- [Weight Loss](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/weight-loss)\n- [Menopause](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/menopause)\n- [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/mental-health)\n- [Hair](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/hair)\n- [Skin](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/skin)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/news)\n\nContent\n\n1. [How Antidepressants Work](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work)\n2. [What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants)\n3. [Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication)\n\n**Free** Mental Health Assessment\n\n[Start here](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/c\/mh)\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog)\n2. [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/mental-health)\n3. The Most Common Antidepressants\n# The Most Common Antidepressants\n\n![Katelyn Hagerty](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/forhims\/image\/upload\/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit\/\/blog\/authors\/katelynheadshot.png)\n\nReviewed by [Katelyn Hagerty, FNP](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/medical-experts\/katelyn-hagerty-fnp)\n\nWritten by Our Editorial Team\n\nPublished 07\/27\/2022\n\nUpdated 07\/28\/2022\n\nIf you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants.\n\nThese prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders.\n\nThat said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common.\n\nContent\n\n1. [How Antidepressants Work](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work)\n2. [What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants)\n3. [Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication)\n\n[How Antidepressants Work](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work)\n\nCopy Link\n\nThe most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than [21 million adults](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression.shtml) in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year.\n\nSymptoms and [signs of depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/signs-of-depression-in-women)[include](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/depression-in-women) sadness and [anxiety](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/anxiety-disorders-overview), irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication.\n\nWondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons.\n\nSerotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine [are](https:\/\/www.jax.org\/news-and-insights\/jax-blog\/2015\/december\/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression) a few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression.\n\nAntidepressants treat depression by [increasing](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/antidepressants.html) levels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious [what do antidepressants feel like?](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/what-do-antidepressants-feel-like) Our guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants.\n\n[What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants)\n\nCopy Link\n\nThere are a few different [types of antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/depression-medications#:~:text=Medications%20like%20Prozac%C2%AE%20\\(fluoxetine,to%20cause%20unpleasant%20side%20effects.). The [first antidepressant](https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines) approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects.\n\nTricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of [tricyclic antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/tricyclic-antidepressants-guide) include [nortriptyline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/nortriptyline-anxiety) and [amitriptyline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/amitriptyline-anxiety). Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often.\n\nBut enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common.\n\n[Online Mental Health](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry)\n\n#### More for your mind\n\nStart now\n\nLearn more\n\n![Hers medication bottle](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957748\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-MoreForYourMind.png)\n### Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ([SSRIs](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/ssri-drugs-overview-types)) are the most [common type](https:\/\/magazine.medlineplus.gov\/article\/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work) of antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by [preventing your brain cells](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/) from reabsorbing it.\n\nSome of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include:\n\n- [Fluoxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/fluoxetine)\n- [Paroxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/paroxetine)\n- [Escitalopram](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/escitalopram)\n- [Sertraline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/sertraline)\n\nYou may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects [include](https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines):\n\n- Nausea\n- Low libido or other issues with sex drive\n- Diarrhea\n- Headaches\n- Dizziness\n- Dry mouth\n- Increased anxiety\n\n[Rx Available](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry)\n\n#### Feeling better is possible\n\nStart now\n\nLearn more\n\n![Woman with blonde hair smiling](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957747\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelingBetterIsPossible.png)\n### Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors\nAnother pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed.\n\n[Venlafaxine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/venlafaxine) and [duloxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/duloxetine) are [two common SNRIs](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications) that are used to treat depression.\n\nCommon side effects associated with SNRIs include:\n\n- Nausea\n- Heavy sweating\n- Constipation\n- Sexual side effects\n- Insomnia\n- Headaches\n- Dizziness\n\nAlong with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called [bupropion](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/bupropion) (sold under the brand name [Wellbutrin®](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/bupropion-wellbutrin-dosage)) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants.\n\n[Mental Health Treatment](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry)\n\n#### Feel-good results\n\nStart now\n\nLearn more\n\n![Two women laughing](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957749\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelGoodResults.png)\n\n[Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication)\n\nCopy Link\n\nAntidepressants can work to [reduce](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK361016\/) symptoms of all kinds of [depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/depression-types-symptoms-causes-more) — including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression).\n\nA [systematic review from 2018](https:\/\/www.thelancet.com\/journals\/lancet\/article\/PIIS0140-6736\\(17\\)32802-7\/fulltext) looked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21 [different antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/full-list-antidepressants-ssri-snri).\n\nEvery single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos.\n\nWith this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for [treating your depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/dealing-with-depression). And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed.\n\nSome people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms.\n\nIf you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by [scheduling a consultation](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/c\/mh\/welcome) with a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going [back on antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/back-on-antidepressants), knowing the possible side effects is useful information.\n\nOnce you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing.\n\n![hers mental health get help image](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/forhims\/image\/upload\/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit\/blog\/mental-health-help-image-new.png)\n\n### Related Drug Comparisons\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| [Adderall vs. Lexapro](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/adderall-vs-lexapro) | [Cymbalta vs. Prozac](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-prozac) |\n| [Buspirone vs. Xanax](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/buspirone-vs-xanax) | [Cymbalta vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-zoloft) |\n| [Cymbalta vs. Lexapro](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-lexapro) | [Lexapro vs. Prozac](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-prozac) |\n| [Lexapro vs. Wellbutrin](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-wellbutrin) | [Lexapro vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-zoloft) |\n| [Prozac vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/prozac-vs-zoloft) | [Sertraline vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/sertraline-vs-zoloft) |\n\n### 14 Sources\nHims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.\n\n1. Major Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression.shtml\n2. Depression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/depression-in-women\n3. Hyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.cell.com\/current-biology\/comments\/S0960-9822(05)00208-3\n4. What causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/mind-and-mood\/what-causes-depression\n5. Antidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/antidepressants.html\n6. Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https:\/\/magazine.medlineplus.gov\/article\/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work\n7. Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/\n8. Depression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines\n9. Sansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4008300\/\n10. Mental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications\n11. Atypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from https:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/content\/atypical-antidepressants\/\n12. Depression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK361016\/\n13. Cipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.thelancet.com\/journals\/lancet\/article\/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7\/fulltext\n14. Garcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory. https:\/\/www.jax.org\/news-and-insights\/jax-blog\/2015\/december\/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression\n\nThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards [here](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/editorial-standards).\n\n#### Related Articles\n[How To Get Antidepressants Written by Hadley Mendelsohn Published October 15, 2024![How To Get Antidepressants](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1756936797\/blog\/STOCKSY\/Hers\/Hers%20Mental%20Health\/Hers_Blog_Stocksy_Mentalhealth5160502.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/how-to-get-antidepressants)\n\n[Switching Antidepressants: What to Expect Written by Geoffrey C. Whittaker Published November 16, 2023![Switching Antidepressants: What to Expect](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1700003430\/blog\/Hers\/Psychiatry\/HIMS_HERS_2022-08-12_2046_3483AA_B_ADOBERGB.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/switching-antidepressants-what-to-expect)\n\n[How to Get Antidepressants Without Insurance Written by Rachel Sacks Published April 30, 2025![How to Get Antidepressants Without Insurance](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/w_1000,ar_16:9,c_fill,g_auto,e_sharpen\/v1690404504\/blog\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/20220204_HERS_Liat_264.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/how-to-get-antidepressants-without-insurance)\n\n### Related Conditions\n[![Anxiety](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1723575819\/cms\/hers\/condition%20guides\/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-Anxiety.png)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/anxiety)  [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/anxiety)\n\nAnxiety is common, but what is anxiety, really? It’s a feeling of worry, fear, or mental tension. If you have an anxiety disorder, this feeling can be overwhelming and may get worse over time. There are many different types of anxiety disorders and, luckily, many different treatments.\n\n[![Depression](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1723575818\/cms\/hers\/condition%20guides\/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-Depression.png)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/depression)  [Depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/depression)\n\nDepression is a common but serious mental health disorder that can cause persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness. Its effects can be devastating. Depression can interfere with your ability to fulfill day-to-day responsibilities at home, at work, or in school.\n\n[![OCD](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1745787463\/cms\/hers\/condition%20guides\/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-OCD.png)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd)  [OCD](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd)\n\nObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by recurring obsessive thoughts and difficult-to-control, compulsive behaviors.\n\n[![PTSD](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1733319240\/cms\/hers\/condition%20guides\/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-PTSD.png)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd)  [PTSD](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/conditions\/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd)\n\nBipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by unusually large shifts in an individual’s mood, 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Hers\n[About Us](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/about)\n\n[Take Care(It's our blog)](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog)\n\n[How It Works](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/about\/how-it-works)\n\n[Editorial Standards](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/editorial-standards)\n\n[FAQs](https:\/\/support.hims.com\/hc\/en-us)\n\n[Investors](https:\/\/investors.forhims.com\/)\n\n### Careers\n[Professionals](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/careers-professionals)\n\n[Providers](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/careers-providers)\n\n### Connect\n[Customer Help Center](https:\/\/support.forhims.com\/hc\/en-us)\n\n[Press Center](https:\/\/news.hims.com\/)\n\n[visit hims.com](https:\/\/www.hims.com\/)\n\n[![LegitScript approved](https:\/\/static.legitscript.com\/seals\/3651555.png)](https:\/\/www.legitscript.com\/websites\/?checker_keywords=forhers.com \"Verify LegitScript Approval\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"If you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants.\n\nThese prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders.\n\nThat said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common.\n\nThe most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than [21 million adults](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression.shtml) in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year.\n\nSymptoms and [signs of depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/signs-of-depression-in-women)[include](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/depression-in-women) sadness and [anxiety](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/anxiety-disorders-overview), irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication.\n\nWondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons.\n\nSerotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine [are](https:\/\/www.jax.org\/news-and-insights\/jax-blog\/2015\/december\/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression) a few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression.\n\nAntidepressants treat depression by [increasing](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/antidepressants.html) levels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious [what do antidepressants feel like?](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/what-do-antidepressants-feel-like) Our guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants.\n\nThere are a few different [types of antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/depression-medications#:~:text=Medications%20like%20Prozac%C2%AE%20\\(fluoxetine,to%20cause%20unpleasant%20side%20effects.). The [first antidepressant](https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines) approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects.\n\nTricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of [tricyclic antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/tricyclic-antidepressants-guide) include [nortriptyline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/nortriptyline-anxiety) and [amitriptyline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/amitriptyline-anxiety). Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often.\n\nBut enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common.\n\n![Hers medication bottle](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957748\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-MoreForYourMind.png)\n\n### Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ([SSRIs](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/ssri-drugs-overview-types)) are the most [common type](https:\/\/magazine.medlineplus.gov\/article\/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work) of antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by [preventing your brain cells](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/) from reabsorbing it.\n\nSome of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include:\n\n- [Fluoxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/fluoxetine)\n- [Paroxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/paroxetine)\n- [Escitalopram](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/escitalopram)\n- [Sertraline](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/sertraline)\n\nYou may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects [include](https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines):\n\n- Nausea\n- Low libido or other issues with sex drive\n- Diarrhea\n- Headaches\n- Dizziness\n- Dry mouth\n- Increased anxiety\n\n[Rx Available](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry)\n\n#### Feeling better is possible\n\n![Woman with blonde hair smiling](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957747\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelingBetterIsPossible.png)\n### Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors\nAnother pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed.\n\n[Venlafaxine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/venlafaxine) and [duloxetine](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/duloxetine) are [two common SNRIs](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications) that are used to treat depression.\n\nCommon side effects associated with SNRIs include:\n\n- Nausea\n- Heavy sweating\n- Constipation\n- Sexual side effects\n- Insomnia\n- Headaches\n- Dizziness\n\nAlong with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called [bupropion](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/psychiatry\/bupropion) (sold under the brand name [Wellbutrin®](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/bupropion-wellbutrin-dosage)) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants.\n\n![Two women laughing](https:\/\/cloudinary.forhims.com\/image\/upload\/v1722957749\/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates\/Hers\/Mental%20Health\/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelGoodResults.png)\n\nAntidepressants can work to [reduce](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK361016\/) symptoms of all kinds of [depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/depression-types-symptoms-causes-more) — including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression).\n\nA [systematic review from 2018](https:\/\/www.thelancet.com\/journals\/lancet\/article\/PIIS0140-6736\\(17\\)32802-7\/fulltext) looked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21 [different antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/full-list-antidepressants-ssri-snri).\n\nEvery single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos.\n\nWith this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for [treating your depression](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/dealing-with-depression). And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed.\n\nSome people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms.\n\nIf you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by [scheduling a consultation](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/c\/mh\/welcome) with a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going [back on antidepressants](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/blog\/back-on-antidepressants), knowing the possible side effects is useful information.\n\nOnce you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing.\n\n![hers mental health get help image](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/forhims\/image\/upload\/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit\/blog\/mental-health-help-image-new.png)\n\n### Related Drug Comparisons\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| [Adderall vs. Lexapro](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/adderall-vs-lexapro) | [Cymbalta vs. Prozac](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-prozac) |\n| [Buspirone vs. Xanax](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/buspirone-vs-xanax) | [Cymbalta vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-zoloft) |\n| [Cymbalta vs. Lexapro](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/cymbalta-vs-lexapro) | [Lexapro vs. Prozac](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-prozac) |\n| [Lexapro vs. Wellbutrin](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-wellbutrin) | [Lexapro vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/lexapro-vs-zoloft) |\n| [Prozac vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/prozac-vs-zoloft) | [Sertraline vs. Zoloft](https:\/\/www.forhers.com\/drugs\/compare\/sertraline-vs-zoloft) |\n\n14 Sources\n\nHims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.\n\n1. Major Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/major-depression.shtml\n2. Depression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/depression-in-women\n3. Hyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.cell.com\/current-biology\/comments\/S0960-9822(05)00208-3\n4. What causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/mind-and-mood\/what-causes-depression\n5. Antidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/antidepressants.html\n6. Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https:\/\/magazine.medlineplus.gov\/article\/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work\n7. Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554406\/\n8. Depression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/9301-depression-medicines\n9. Sansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4008300\/\n10. Mental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications\n11. Atypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from https:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/content\/atypical-antidepressants\/\n12. Depression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK361016\/\n13. Cipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from https:\/\/www.thelancet.com\/journals\/lancet\/article\/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7\/fulltext\n14. Garcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory. https:\/\/www.jax.org\/news-and-insights\/jax-blog\/2015\/december\/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	If you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants. These prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders. That said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common. The most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than 21 million adults in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year. Symptoms and signs of depression include sadness and anxiety , irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication. Wondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine are a few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression. Antidepressants treat depression by increasing levels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious what do antidepressants feel like? Our guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants. There are a few different types of antidepressants . The first antidepressant approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants include nortriptyline and amitriptyline . Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often. But enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs ) are the most common type of antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by preventing your brain cells from reabsorbing it. Some of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include: Fluoxetine Paroxetine Escitalopram Sertraline You may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects include : Nausea Low libido or other issues with sex drive Diarrhea Headaches Dizziness Dry mouth Increased anxiety Rx Available Feeling better is possible Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors Another pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed. Venlafaxine and duloxetine are two common SNRIs that are used to treat depression. Common side effects associated with SNRIs include: Nausea Heavy sweating Constipation Sexual side effects Insomnia Headaches Dizziness Along with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called bupropion (sold under the brand name Wellbutrin ® ) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants. Antidepressants can work to reduce symptoms of all kinds of depression — including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression). A systematic review from 2018 looked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21 different antidepressants . Every single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos. With this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for treating your depression . And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed. Some people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms. If you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by scheduling a consultation with a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going back on antidepressants , knowing the possible side effects is useful information. Once you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing. Related Drug Comparisons Adderall vs. Lexapro Cymbalta vs. Prozac Buspirone vs. Xanax Cymbalta vs. Zoloft Cymbalta vs. Lexapro Lexapro vs. Prozac Lexapro vs. Wellbutrin Lexapro vs. Zoloft Prozac vs. Zoloft Sertraline vs. Zoloft 14 Sources Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. Major Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml Depression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women Hyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from https://www.cell.com/current-biology/comments/S0960-9822(05)00208-3 What causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression Antidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ Depression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines Sansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/ Mental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications Atypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from https://screening.mhanational.org/content/atypical-antidepressants/ Depression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/ Cipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7/fulltext Garcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory. https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression
Markdown	- [All](https://www.forhers.com/blog) - [Weight Loss](https://www.forhers.com/blog/weight-loss) - [Menopause](https://www.forhers.com/blog/menopause) - [Mental Health](https://www.forhers.com/blog/mental-health) - [Hair](https://www.forhers.com/blog/hair) - [Skin](https://www.forhers.com/blog/skin) - [News](https://www.forhers.com/blog/news) Content 1. [How Antidepressants Work](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work) 2. [What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants) 3. [Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication) Free Mental Health Assessment [Start here](https://www.forhers.com/c/mh) 1. [Home](https://www.forhers.com/blog) 2. [Mental Health](https://www.forhers.com/blog/mental-health) 3. The Most Common Antidepressants # The Most Common Antidepressants ![Katelyn Hagerty](https://www.forhers.com/forhims/image/upload/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit//blog/authors/katelynheadshot.png) Reviewed by [Katelyn Hagerty, FNP](https://www.forhers.com/medical-experts/katelyn-hagerty-fnp) Written by Our Editorial Team Published 07/27/2022 Updated 07/28/2022 If you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants. These prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders. That said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common. Content 1. [How Antidepressants Work](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work) 2. [What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants) 3. [Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication) [How Antidepressants Work](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#how-antidepressants-work) Copy Link The most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than [21 million adults](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml) in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year. Symptoms and [signs of depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/signs-of-depression-in-women)[include](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women) sadness and [anxiety](https://www.forhers.com/blog/anxiety-disorders-overview), irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication. Wondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine [are](https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression) a few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression. Antidepressants treat depression by [increasing](https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html) levels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious [what do antidepressants feel like?](https://www.forhers.com/blog/what-do-antidepressants-feel-like) Our guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants. [What Are The Most Popular Antidepressants?](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#what-are-the-most-popular-antidepressants) Copy Link There are a few different [types of antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/depression-medications#:~:text=Medications%20like%20Prozac%C2%AE%20\(fluoxetine,to%20cause%20unpleasant%20side%20effects.). The [first antidepressant](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines) approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of [tricyclic antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-guide) include [nortriptyline](https://www.forhers.com/blog/nortriptyline-anxiety) and [amitriptyline](https://www.forhers.com/blog/amitriptyline-anxiety). Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often. But enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common. [Online Mental Health](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry) #### More for your mind Start now Learn more ![Hers medication bottle](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957748/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-MoreForYourMind.png) ### Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ([SSRIs](https://www.forhers.com/blog/ssri-drugs-overview-types)) are the most [common type](https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work) of antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by [preventing your brain cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) from reabsorbing it. Some of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include: - [Fluoxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/fluoxetine) - [Paroxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/paroxetine) - [Escitalopram](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/escitalopram) - [Sertraline](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/sertraline) You may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects [include](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines): - Nausea - Low libido or other issues with sex drive - Diarrhea - Headaches - Dizziness - Dry mouth - Increased anxiety [Rx Available](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry) #### Feeling better is possible Start now Learn more ![Woman with blonde hair smiling](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957747/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelingBetterIsPossible.png) ### Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors Another pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed. [Venlafaxine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/venlafaxine) and [duloxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/duloxetine) are [two common SNRIs](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications) that are used to treat depression. Common side effects associated with SNRIs include: - Nausea - Heavy sweating - Constipation - Sexual side effects - Insomnia - Headaches - Dizziness Along with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called [bupropion](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/bupropion) (sold under the brand name [Wellbutrin®](https://www.forhers.com/blog/bupropion-wellbutrin-dosage)) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants. [Mental Health Treatment](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry) #### Feel-good results Start now Learn more ![Two women laughing](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957749/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelGoodResults.png) [Learning About The Most Common Antidepressant Medication](https://www.forhers.com/blog/common-antidepressants#learning-about-the-most-common-antidepressant-medication) Copy Link Antidepressants can work to [reduce](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/) symptoms of all kinds of [depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/depression-types-symptoms-causes-more) — including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression). A [systematic review from 2018](https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736\(17\)32802-7/fulltext) looked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21 [different antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/full-list-antidepressants-ssri-snri). Every single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos. With this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for [treating your depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/dealing-with-depression). And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed. Some people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms. If you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by [scheduling a consultation](https://www.forhers.com/c/mh/welcome) with a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going [back on antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/back-on-antidepressants), knowing the possible side effects is useful information. Once you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing. ![hers mental health get help image](https://www.forhers.com/forhims/image/upload/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit/blog/mental-health-help-image-new.png) ### Related Drug Comparisons \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [Adderall vs. Lexapro](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/adderall-vs-lexapro) \| [Cymbalta vs. Prozac](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-prozac) \| \| [Buspirone vs. Xanax](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/buspirone-vs-xanax) \| [Cymbalta vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-zoloft) \| \| [Cymbalta vs. Lexapro](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-lexapro) \| [Lexapro vs. Prozac](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-prozac) \| \| [Lexapro vs. Wellbutrin](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-wellbutrin) \| [Lexapro vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-zoloft) \| \| [Prozac vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/prozac-vs-zoloft) \| [Sertraline vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/sertraline-vs-zoloft) \| ### 14 Sources Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. 1. Major Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml 2. Depression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women 3. Hyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from https://www.cell.com/current-biology/comments/S0960-9822(05)00208-3 4. What causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression 5. Antidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html 6. Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work 7. Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ 8. Depression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines 9. Sansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/ 10. Mental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications 11. Atypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from https://screening.mhanational.org/content/atypical-antidepressants/ 12. Depression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/ 13. Cipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7/fulltext 14. Garcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory. https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards [here](https://www.forhers.com/editorial-standards). #### Related Articles [How To Get Antidepressants Written by Hadley Mendelsohn Published October 15, 2024![How To Get Antidepressants](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1756936797/blog/STOCKSY/Hers/Hers%20Mental%20Health/Hers_Blog_Stocksy_Mentalhealth5160502.jpg)](https://www.forhers.com/blog/how-to-get-antidepressants) [Switching Antidepressants: What to Expect Written by Geoffrey C. Whittaker Published November 16, 2023![Switching Antidepressants: What to Expect](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1700003430/blog/Hers/Psychiatry/HIMS_HERS_2022-08-12_2046_3483AA_B_ADOBERGB.jpg)](https://www.forhers.com/blog/switching-antidepressants-what-to-expect) [How to Get Antidepressants Without Insurance Written by Rachel Sacks Published April 30, 2025![How to Get Antidepressants Without Insurance](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/w_1000,ar_16:9,c_fill,g_auto,e_sharpen/v1690404504/blog/Hers/Mental%20Health/20220204_HERS_Liat_264.jpg)](https://www.forhers.com/blog/how-to-get-antidepressants-without-insurance) ### Related Conditions [![Anxiety](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1723575819/cms/hers/condition%20guides/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-Anxiety.png)](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/anxiety) [Anxiety](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/anxiety) Anxiety is common, but what is anxiety, really? It’s a feeling of worry, fear, or mental tension. If you have an anxiety disorder, this feeling can be overwhelming and may get worse over time. There are many different types of anxiety disorders and, luckily, many different treatments. [![Depression](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1723575818/cms/hers/condition%20guides/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-Depression.png)](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/depression) [Depression](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/depression) Depression is a common but serious mental health disorder that can cause persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness. Its effects can be devastating. Depression can interfere with your ability to fulfill day-to-day responsibilities at home, at work, or in school. [![OCD](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1745787463/cms/hers/condition%20guides/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-OCD.png)](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd) [OCD](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd) Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by recurring obsessive thoughts and difficult-to-control, compulsive behaviors. [![PTSD](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1733319240/cms/hers/condition%20guides/Hers-ConditionGuide-HubCard-MH-PTSD.png)](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd) [PTSD](https://www.forhers.com/conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd) Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by unusually large shifts in an individual’s mood, concentration, energy and activity level. 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Readable Markdown	If you’re dealing with depression, you have likely spent some time searching for possible treatment options and come across antidepressants. These prescription medications are often suggested by healthcare professionals because they can be an effective way of treating depressive disorders. That said, there are a number of different types of antidepressants on the market. Here are some of the most common. The most popular use for antidepressants is, you guessed it, to treat depression. Which is a good thing considering that more than [21 million adults](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml) in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode during the previous year. Symptoms and [signs of depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/signs-of-depression-in-women)[include](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women) sadness and [anxiety](https://www.forhers.com/blog/anxiety-disorders-overview), irritability, tiredness, weight gain or loss, sleep issues, appetite changes and more. Depression symptoms vary from person to person, as do the side effects they may experience when taking antidepressant medication. Wondering what causes depression? It’s thought to be tied to low levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain — aka, the things that transfer information between neurons. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine [are](https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression) a few of the more commonly talked about neurotransmitters related to depression. Antidepressants treat depression by [increasing](https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html) levels of some of these specific chemicals in our brains. Curious [what do antidepressants feel like?](https://www.forhers.com/blog/what-do-antidepressants-feel-like) Our guide goes into more detail on the effects of antidepressants. There are a few different [types of antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/depression-medications#:~:text=Medications%20like%20Prozac%C2%AE%20\(fluoxetine,to%20cause%20unpleasant%20side%20effects.). The [first antidepressant](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines) approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). But these have fallen out of favor as newer antidepressants have hit the market, namely because MAOIs tend to have strong side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants are another type of medication that were once prescribed for the treatment of depression. Examples of [tricyclic antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-guide) include [nortriptyline](https://www.forhers.com/blog/nortriptyline-anxiety) and [amitriptyline](https://www.forhers.com/blog/amitriptyline-anxiety). Like MAOIs, this type of antidepressant is prescribed less often. But enough about the antidepressants that aren’t commonly prescribed — here are the ones that are common. ![Hers medication bottle](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957748/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-MoreForYourMind.png) ### Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ([SSRIs](https://www.forhers.com/blog/ssri-drugs-overview-types)) are the most [common type](https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work) of antidepressant prescribed. This type of medication works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain by [preventing your brain cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) from reabsorbing it. Some of the most common SSRIs that are prescribed include: - [Fluoxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/fluoxetine) - [Paroxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/paroxetine) - [Escitalopram](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/escitalopram) - [Sertraline](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/sertraline) You may experience some side effects when you start taking an SSRI medication. Some of the most common side effects [include](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines): - Nausea - Low libido or other issues with sex drive - Diarrhea - Headaches - Dizziness - Dry mouth - Increased anxiety [Rx Available](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry) #### Feeling better is possible ![Woman with blonde hair smiling](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957747/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelingBetterIsPossible.png) ### Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors Another pretty popular class of antidepressants is called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Like an SSRI, SNRIs stop serotonin from being reabsorbed — plus, they prevent norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter) from being reabsorbed. [Venlafaxine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/venlafaxine) and [duloxetine](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/duloxetine) are [two common SNRIs](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications) that are used to treat depression. Common side effects associated with SNRIs include: - Nausea - Heavy sweating - Constipation - Sexual side effects - Insomnia - Headaches - Dizziness Along with SSRIs and SNRIs, there is one other common antidepressant called [bupropion](https://www.forhers.com/psychiatry/bupropion) (sold under the brand name [Wellbutrin®](https://www.forhers.com/blog/bupropion-wellbutrin-dosage)) that’s sometimes prescribed. It is an atypical antidepressant, which means that it doesn’t fall under one of the main categories of antidepressants. ![Two women laughing](https://cloudinary.forhims.com/image/upload/v1722957749/2024%20Blog%20CTA%20Updates/Hers/Mental%20Health/Blog-Hers-CVRUpdate-MH-CTA-FeelGoodResults.png) Antidepressants can work to [reduce](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/) symptoms of all kinds of [depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/depression-types-symptoms-causes-more) — including moderate depression or major depression (also called severe depression). A [systematic review from 2018](https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736\(17\)32802-7/fulltext) looked at people who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effectiveness of a placebo versus 21 [different antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/full-list-antidepressants-ssri-snri). Every single one of the antidepressants was found to be more effective at treating MDD than the placebos. With this, taking an antidepressant is clearly an option for [treating your depression](https://www.forhers.com/blog/dealing-with-depression). And there are a number of different ones that are commonly prescribed. Some people even have to try a few before they find the one that’s right for them and their depressive symptoms. If you’d like to explore whether one of the most popular antidepressants could be a good fit for you, you should start by [scheduling a consultation](https://www.forhers.com/c/mh/welcome) with a mental health professional. They’ll be able to review your depression symptoms, explain common side effects of antidepressants and suggest one that may work for you. Whether you're starting a new medication or are going [back on antidepressants](https://www.forhers.com/blog/back-on-antidepressants), knowing the possible side effects is useful information. Once you begin antidepressant treatment, you can also check in with your healthcare professional to discuss things like bothersome side effects, if you think you may have treatment-resistant depression or any other issues you may be noticing. ![hers mental health get help image](https://www.forhers.com/forhims/image/upload/q_auto,f_auto,fl_lossy,c_limit/blog/mental-health-help-image-new.png) ### Related Drug Comparisons \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [Adderall vs. Lexapro](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/adderall-vs-lexapro) \| [Cymbalta vs. Prozac](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-prozac) \| \| [Buspirone vs. Xanax](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/buspirone-vs-xanax) \| [Cymbalta vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-zoloft) \| \| [Cymbalta vs. Lexapro](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/cymbalta-vs-lexapro) \| [Lexapro vs. Prozac](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-prozac) \| \| [Lexapro vs. Wellbutrin](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-wellbutrin) \| [Lexapro vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/lexapro-vs-zoloft) \| \| [Prozac vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/prozac-vs-zoloft) \| [Sertraline vs. Zoloft](https://www.forhers.com/drugs/compare/sertraline-vs-zoloft) \| 14 Sources Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. 1. Major Depression. (2019, February). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml 2. Depression of Women: 5 Things to Know. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women 3. Hyman, S.E. (2005, March 8). Neurotransmitters. Current Biology. 15 (5), PR154-R158. Retrieved from https://www.cell.com/current-biology/comments/S0960-9822(05)00208-3 4. What causes depression? (2019, June 24). Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression 5. Antidepressants. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html 6. Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants and How They Work. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/commonly-prescribed-antidepressants-and-how-they-work 7. Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ 8. Depression Medications. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-depression-medicines 9. Sansone, R., Sansone, L., (2014). Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Comparison. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/ 10. Mental Health Medications. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications 11. Atypical Antidepressants. Mental Health America. Retrieved from https://screening.mhanational.org/content/atypical-antidepressants/ 12. Depression: How Effective are Antidepressants? (2020). Informedhealth.org. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361016/ 13. Cipriani, A., Furukawa, T., Salanti, G., (2018). Comparative efficacy and acceptability of 21 antidepressant drugs for the acute treatment of adults with major depressive disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32802-7/fulltext 14. Garcia, D. (2015, December 22). Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression. The Jackson Laboratory. https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression
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