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| Meta Title | Which Antidepressant Medication is Best for Me? A Psychiatrist Explains | Talkiatry |
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Coping with depression is no easy feat. Much more than just sadness, severe depression can feel completely crushing, making it difficult to function and nearly impossible to enjoy the things you used to. Luckily, with treatment, symptoms of depression can be lifted. Â
Antidepressants are a common, effective treatment for major depressive disorder. They’re quite common, with
over 10% of people
in the US taking them. Antidepressants have various FDA-approved indications and are also used for other mental health conditions, too, such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Â
If you’re considering antidepressants to treat your depression, here’s what you need to know about depression treatment options. Â
Expert care for depression is here. See if Talkiatry is right for you.
Start our short assessment
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs work by acting on serotonin
, a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) in the brain. Serotonin is thought to be linked to depression. SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, which in turn reduces depression symptoms. Â
These antidepressants are considered the
first-line medication
treatment for depression due to their proven efficacy and lower risk of intolerable or serious side effects compared to older medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness, but they’ll typically subside within a few days to weeks. Â
Examples of SSRIs are:
Celexa
(Citalopram)
Lexapro
(Escitalopram)
Prozac
(Fluoxetine)
Luvox
(Fluvoxamine)
Paxil
(Paroxetine)
Zoloft
(Sertraline)
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs, but instead of just acting on serotonin, they affect two neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin and norepinephrine. Ultimately, SNRIs increase the availability of both of these neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of depression. Like SSRIs, they also have a low risk of intense adverse effects. SNRIs are very common, but not as commonly prescribed as SSRIs.
Examples of SNRIs are:
Cymbalta
(Duloxetine)
Effexor
(Venlafaxine)
Fetzima (Levomilnacipran)
Pristiq
(Desvenlafaxine)
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
TCAs
work by increasing the availability of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Some TCAs have a greater effect on serotonin, while others have a stronger effect on norepinephrine. Â
These are an older class of antidepressants, and although they are similarly as effective as SSRIs, they are less commonly prescribed due to a higher
risk of side effects
due to their anticholinergic effects, such as lightheadedness upon standing, trouble urinating, or blurred vision. Still, TCAs may work for some people, and yourA psychiatrist might prescribe a TCA if your symptoms haven’t responded to SSRIs or SNRIs.  Â
Examples of TCAs are:
Elavil (amitriptyline)
Asendin (amoxapine)
Silenor (doxepin)
Norpramin (desipramine)
Tofranil (imipramine)
Aventyl (nortriptyline)
Vivactil (protriptyline)
Surmontil (rrimipramine)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) Â
MAOIs
, the
first type of antidepressant introduced
, act on an enzyme called MAO (monoamine oxidase). This enzyme breaks down important neurotransmitters in the brain, including
dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine
. MAOIs block the effects of MAO, making more of these neurotransmitters available, which can alleviate depression symptoms. Â
Since they are an older class of antidepressants, they are not commonly prescribed due to strict guidelines while taking the medication and a risky side effect profile (such as dangerously high blood pressure). However, an MAOI certainly doesn’t guarantee severe side effects. More mild or moderate side effects (like dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and sexual problems) are more common. Â
These meds are typically saved for last-resort situations where other medications have not worked, such as in the case of severe depression that is treatment-resistant. Â
Examples of MAOIs are:
Nardil (phenelzine)
Ensam (selegiline)
Parnate (tranylcypromine)
Marplan (isocarboxazid)
We're in-network with 60+ major insurance plans.
Check your insurance
Atypical antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants work differently than all the above classes of antidepressants. Each one has a unique mechanism of action. However, they all impact neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine) and overall brain chemistry to relieve symptoms of depression. Â
Side effects will vary depending on the specific atypical antidepressant. However, some general overarching
common side effects
are dizziness, dry mouth, appetite changes, or stomach upset. New or worsening suicidal thoughts are also a concern with any type of antidepressant, especially in teens and young adults. Â
Examples of atypical antidepressants are:
Wellbutrin
(bupropion)
Remeron
(mirtazapine)
Trintellix
(vortioxetine)
Viibryd
(vilazodone)
How do I choose an antidepressant medication?
Ultimately, a psychiatrist will make the call on which antidepressant medication is best for you, depending on your symptoms, medical history, and co-occurring mental health conditions. They can determine which class of antidepressant is best for you, weighing the pros and cons of each. Â
Keep in mind that it can take several weeks to feel the full effects of an antidepressant. Additionally, it’s important to remember that on top of medications, talk therapy is a crucial part of depression recovery. Through talk therapy, a therapist can help you learn coping skills to manage your depression symptoms. For many people with depression, a combination of therapy and medication is the
most effective way to treat depression
.
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist to aid in depression treatment, consider Talkiatry. Â
We’re a national psychiatry practice that treats a wide variety of mental health conditions, including mood disorders like depression. We provide virtual, in-network services so you can get the care you need from the comfort of your home. To get started,
complete our free online assessment
to get matched with a psychiatrist. Â
FAQs
Which antidepressants have the least side effects? Â
The
general consensus
is that SSRIs are the antidepressants that have the least side effects and are best tolerated. However, every individual is different and responds to medications differently. Taking an SSRI doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have minimal side effects, but the odds are in your favor. Â
Which antidepressants make you gain weight?
Many antidepressants have a possible side effect of weight gain
–– but that doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely gain weight when you take them. However, research has found that certain medications across the classes of antidepressants—like Remeron (mirtazapine), TCAs, and MAOIs— are
more likely to cause weight gain
than others. If you’re worried about this side effect, let your doctor know.
What is the most effective antidepressant?
There is no single “best” or “most effective” antidepressant. Everyone is different and responds to medications differently. For example, while an SSRI might bring one person the most symptom relief, a TCA might be more effective for another person. Sometimes, it takes some trial and error to figure out what the most effective antidepressant is for you. Combining an antidepressant with talk therapy can also result in significant benefits. Â
Related article:
What is the best antidepressant for teens?
Talkiatry is a mental health practice, and our clinicians review everything we write. However, articles are never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may need mental health help, talk to a psychiatrist. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away. |
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Which antidepressant is right for me?
# Which antidepressant is right for me?
Which antidepressant works best for you can depend on your symptoms, how you react to medication, and more.
Reviewed by:
Caitlin Gardiner, MD
\|
[View bio](https://www.talkiatry.com/team-members/caitlin-gardiner-md)
August 18, 2024
Original source:
## Key takeaways
- Types of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs.
- There are also atypical antidepressants, whcih don’t fit neatly into the above types.
- Medications can come with a variety of side effects, and your doctor can help minimize them.
[](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/best-antidepressants)[](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/best-antidepressants)[](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/best-antidepressants)
[Copied\!](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/best-antidepressants)
In this article
[Text Link](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/best-antidepressants)
Coping with depression is no easy feat. Much more than just sadness, severe depression can feel completely crushing, making it difficult to function and nearly impossible to enjoy the things you used to. Luckily, with treatment, symptoms of depression can be lifted.
Antidepressants are a common, effective treatment for major depressive disorder. They’re quite common, with [over 10% of people](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-antidepressants-depression-medication) in the US taking them. Antidepressants have various FDA-approved indications and are also used for other mental health conditions, too, such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you’re considering antidepressants to treat your depression, here’s what you need to know about depression treatment options.
***
#### Expert care for depression is here. See if Talkiatry is right for you.
[Start our short assessment](https://www.talkiatry.com/assessment-link)
***
## Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
[SSRIs work by acting on serotonin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/ssri-vs-snri), a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) in the brain. Serotonin is thought to be linked to depression. SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, which in turn reduces depression symptoms.
These antidepressants are considered the [first-line medication](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) treatment for depression due to their proven efficacy and lower risk of intolerable or serious side effects compared to older medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness, but they’ll typically subside within a few days to weeks.
Examples of SSRIs are:
- [Celexa](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/celexa-for-anxiety-depression) (Citalopram)
- [Lexapro](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/lexapro-for-anxiety) (Escitalopram)
- [Prozac](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/prozac-for-anxiety) (Fluoxetine)
- [Luvox](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/luvox-for-ocd) (Fluvoxamine)
- [Paxil](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/paxil-for-anxiety-depression) (Paroxetine)
- [Zoloft](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/zoloft-for-anxiety) (Sertraline)
## Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs, but instead of just acting on serotonin, they affect two neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin and norepinephrine. Ultimately, SNRIs increase the availability of both of these neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of depression. Like SSRIs, they also have a low risk of intense adverse effects. SNRIs are very common, but not as commonly prescribed as SSRIs.
Examples of SNRIs are:
- [Cymbalta](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cymbalta-duloxetine-anxiety-depression) (Duloxetine)
- [Effexor](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/effexor-venlafaxine-for-anxiety) (Venlafaxine)
- Fetzima (Levomilnacipran)
- [Pristiq](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/pristiq-for-anxiety) (Desvenlafaxine)
## Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
[TCAs](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-tca-list) work by increasing the availability of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Some TCAs have a greater effect on serotonin, while others have a stronger effect on norepinephrine.
These are an older class of antidepressants, and although they are similarly as effective as SSRIs, they are less commonly prescribed due to a higher [risk of side effects](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046983) due to their anticholinergic effects, such as lightheadedness upon standing, trouble urinating, or blurred vision. Still, TCAs may work for some people, and yourA psychiatrist might prescribe a TCA if your symptoms haven’t responded to SSRIs or SNRIs.
Examples of TCAs are:
- Elavil (amitriptyline)
- Asendin (amoxapine)
- Silenor (doxepin)
- Norpramin (desipramine)
- Tofranil (imipramine)
- Aventyl (nortriptyline)
- Vivactil (protriptyline)
- Surmontil (rrimipramine)
### Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
[MAOIs](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/maois-list), the [first type of antidepressant introduced](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539848/), act on an enzyme called MAO (monoamine oxidase). This enzyme breaks down important neurotransmitters in the brain, including [dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/maois/art-20043992). MAOIs block the effects of MAO, making more of these neurotransmitters available, which can alleviate depression symptoms.
Since they are an older class of antidepressants, they are not commonly prescribed due to strict guidelines while taking the medication and a risky side effect profile (such as dangerously high blood pressure). However, an MAOI certainly doesn’t guarantee severe side effects. More mild or moderate side effects (like dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and sexual problems) are more common.
These meds are typically saved for last-resort situations where other medications have not worked, such as in the case of severe depression that is treatment-resistant.
Examples of MAOIs are:
- Nardil (phenelzine)
- Ensam (selegiline)
- Parnate (tranylcypromine)
- Marplan (isocarboxazid)
***
#### We're in-network with 60+ major insurance plans.
[Check your insurance](https://www.talkiatry.com/insurance)
***
### Atypical antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants work differently than all the above classes of antidepressants. Each one has a unique mechanism of action. However, they all impact neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine) and overall brain chemistry to relieve symptoms of depression.
Side effects will vary depending on the specific atypical antidepressant. However, some general overarching [common side effects](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/atypical-antidepressants/art-20048208) are dizziness, dry mouth, appetite changes, or stomach upset. New or worsening suicidal thoughts are also a concern with any type of antidepressant, especially in teens and young adults.
Examples of atypical antidepressants are:
- [Wellbutrin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-long-for-wellbutrin-to-work) (bupropion)
- [Remeron](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/mirtazapine-for-anxiety) (mirtazapine)
- [Trintellix](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/trintellix-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine)
- [Viibryd](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/viibryd-for-anxiety) (vilazodone)
## How do I choose an antidepressant medication?
Ultimately, a psychiatrist will make the call on which antidepressant medication is best for you, depending on your symptoms, medical history, and co-occurring mental health conditions. They can determine which class of antidepressant is best for you, weighing the pros and cons of each.
Keep in mind that it can take several weeks to feel the full effects of an antidepressant. Additionally, it’s important to remember that on top of medications, talk therapy is a crucial part of depression recovery. Through talk therapy, a therapist can help you learn coping skills to manage your depression symptoms. For many people with depression, a combination of therapy and medication is the [most effective way to treat depression](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5244449/).
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist to aid in depression treatment, consider Talkiatry.
We’re a national psychiatry practice that treats a wide variety of mental health conditions, including mood disorders like depression. We provide virtual, in-network services so you can get the care you need from the comfort of your home. To get started, [complete our free online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment) to get matched with a psychiatrist.
## FAQs
### Which antidepressants have the least side effects?
The [general consensus](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8395812/) is that SSRIs are the antidepressants that have the least side effects and are best tolerated. However, every individual is different and responds to medications differently. Taking an SSRI doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have minimal side effects, but the odds are in your favor.
### Which antidepressants make you gain weight?
[Many antidepressants have a possible side effect of weight gain](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/antidepressants-that-cause-weight-loss-gain) –– but that doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely gain weight when you take them. However, research has found that certain medications across the classes of antidepressants—like Remeron (mirtazapine), TCAs, and MAOIs— are [more likely to cause weight gain](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-weight-gain/faq-20058127) than others. If you’re worried about this side effect, let your doctor know.
### What is the most effective antidepressant?
There is no single “best” or “most effective” antidepressant. Everyone is different and responds to medications differently. For example, while an SSRI might bring one person the most symptom relief, a TCA might be more effective for another person. Sometimes, it takes some trial and error to figure out what the most effective antidepressant is for you. Combining an antidepressant with talk therapy can also result in significant benefits.
Related article: [What is the best antidepressant for teens?](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/antidepressants-teenagers)
*Talkiatry is a mental health practice, and our clinicians review everything we write. However, articles are never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may need mental health help, talk to a psychiatrist. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.*
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### What kind of treatment does Talkiatry provide?

At Talkiatry, we specialize in psychiatry, meaning the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Your psychiatrist will meet with you virtually on a schedule you set together, devise a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and preferences, and work with you to adjust your plan as you meet your goals.
If your treatment plan includes medication, your psychiatrist will prescribe and manage it. If needed, your psychiatrist can also refer you to a Talkiatry therapist.
### What's the difference between a therapist and psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are doctors who have specialized training in diagnosing and treating complex mental health conditions through medication management. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or similar, a psychiatrist may be a good place to start.
Other signs that you should see a psychiatrist include:
- Your primary care doctor or another doctor thinks you may benefit from the services of a psychiatrist and provides a referral
- You are interested in taking medication to treat a mental health condition
- Your symptoms are severe enough to regularly interfere with your everyday life
The term “therapist” can apply to a range of professionals including social workers, mental health counselors, psychologists, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychoanalysts. Working with a therapist generally involves regular talk therapy sessions where you discuss your feelings, problem-solving strategies, and coping mechanisms to help with your condition.
### Who can prescribe medication?

All our psychiatrists (and all psychiatrists in general) are medical doctors with additional training in mental health. They can prescribe any medication they think can help their patients. In order to find out which medications might be appropriate, they need to conduct a full evaluation. At Talkiatry, first visits are generally scheduled for 60 minutes or more to give your psychiatrist time to learn about you, work on a treatment plan, and discuss any medications that might be included.
About
Caitlin Gardiner, MD
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs. As a known helper, Dr. Gardiner started her career with a bachelor's degree in social work from Cazenovia College in Cazenovia, NY. After changing career paths, she received her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. She stayed upstate to complete her general psychiatry residency, where she was chief resident at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this, she completed her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Upstate due to the high quality of training. Dr. Gardiner has completed 3 years of advanced training in Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy as well as specialized training in DBT. Dr. Gardiner is a well-rounded psychiatrist who enjoys treating youth and young adults during transitional phases of life while providing a safe and supportive environment. She believes strongly in reducing polypharmacy and providing high-quality medication management through a therapeutic and developmental lens.
[Read more](https://www.talkiatry.com/team-members/caitlin-gardiner-md)
Article sources

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| Readable Markdown | Which antidepressant works best for you can depend on your symptoms, how you react to medication, and more.
Coping with depression is no easy feat. Much more than just sadness, severe depression can feel completely crushing, making it difficult to function and nearly impossible to enjoy the things you used to. Luckily, with treatment, symptoms of depression can be lifted.
Antidepressants are a common, effective treatment for major depressive disorder. They’re quite common, with [over 10% of people](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-antidepressants-depression-medication) in the US taking them. Antidepressants have various FDA-approved indications and are also used for other mental health conditions, too, such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you’re considering antidepressants to treat your depression, here’s what you need to know about depression treatment options.
Expert care for depression is here. See if Talkiatry is right for you. [Start our short assessment](https://www.talkiatry.com/assessment-link)
## Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
[SSRIs work by acting on serotonin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/ssri-vs-snri), a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) in the brain. Serotonin is thought to be linked to depression. SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, which in turn reduces depression symptoms.
These antidepressants are considered the [first-line medication](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) treatment for depression due to their proven efficacy and lower risk of intolerable or serious side effects compared to older medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness, but they’ll typically subside within a few days to weeks.
Examples of SSRIs are:
- [Celexa](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/celexa-for-anxiety-depression) (Citalopram)
- [Lexapro](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/lexapro-for-anxiety) (Escitalopram)
- [Prozac](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/prozac-for-anxiety) (Fluoxetine)
- [Luvox](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/luvox-for-ocd) (Fluvoxamine)
- [Paxil](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/paxil-for-anxiety-depression) (Paroxetine)
- [Zoloft](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/zoloft-for-anxiety) (Sertraline)
## Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs, but instead of just acting on serotonin, they affect two neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin and norepinephrine. Ultimately, SNRIs increase the availability of both of these neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of depression. Like SSRIs, they also have a low risk of intense adverse effects. SNRIs are very common, but not as commonly prescribed as SSRIs.
Examples of SNRIs are:
- [Cymbalta](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cymbalta-duloxetine-anxiety-depression) (Duloxetine)
- [Effexor](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/effexor-venlafaxine-for-anxiety) (Venlafaxine)
- Fetzima (Levomilnacipran)
- [Pristiq](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/pristiq-for-anxiety) (Desvenlafaxine)
## Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
[TCAs](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-tca-list) work by increasing the availability of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Some TCAs have a greater effect on serotonin, while others have a stronger effect on norepinephrine.
These are an older class of antidepressants, and although they are similarly as effective as SSRIs, they are less commonly prescribed due to a higher [risk of side effects](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046983) due to their anticholinergic effects, such as lightheadedness upon standing, trouble urinating, or blurred vision. Still, TCAs may work for some people, and yourA psychiatrist might prescribe a TCA if your symptoms haven’t responded to SSRIs or SNRIs.
Examples of TCAs are:
- Elavil (amitriptyline)
- Asendin (amoxapine)
- Silenor (doxepin)
- Norpramin (desipramine)
- Tofranil (imipramine)
- Aventyl (nortriptyline)
- Vivactil (protriptyline)
- Surmontil (rrimipramine)
### Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
[MAOIs](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/maois-list), the [first type of antidepressant introduced](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539848/), act on an enzyme called MAO (monoamine oxidase). This enzyme breaks down important neurotransmitters in the brain, including [dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/maois/art-20043992). MAOIs block the effects of MAO, making more of these neurotransmitters available, which can alleviate depression symptoms.
Since they are an older class of antidepressants, they are not commonly prescribed due to strict guidelines while taking the medication and a risky side effect profile (such as dangerously high blood pressure). However, an MAOI certainly doesn’t guarantee severe side effects. More mild or moderate side effects (like dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and sexual problems) are more common.
These meds are typically saved for last-resort situations where other medications have not worked, such as in the case of severe depression that is treatment-resistant.
Examples of MAOIs are:
- Nardil (phenelzine)
- Ensam (selegiline)
- Parnate (tranylcypromine)
- Marplan (isocarboxazid)
We're in-network with 60+ major insurance plans. [Check your insurance](https://www.talkiatry.com/insurance)
### Atypical antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants work differently than all the above classes of antidepressants. Each one has a unique mechanism of action. However, they all impact neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine) and overall brain chemistry to relieve symptoms of depression.
Side effects will vary depending on the specific atypical antidepressant. However, some general overarching [common side effects](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/atypical-antidepressants/art-20048208) are dizziness, dry mouth, appetite changes, or stomach upset. New or worsening suicidal thoughts are also a concern with any type of antidepressant, especially in teens and young adults.
Examples of atypical antidepressants are:
- [Wellbutrin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-long-for-wellbutrin-to-work) (bupropion)
- [Remeron](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/mirtazapine-for-anxiety) (mirtazapine)
- [Trintellix](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/trintellix-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine)
- [Viibryd](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/viibryd-for-anxiety) (vilazodone)
## How do I choose an antidepressant medication?
Ultimately, a psychiatrist will make the call on which antidepressant medication is best for you, depending on your symptoms, medical history, and co-occurring mental health conditions. They can determine which class of antidepressant is best for you, weighing the pros and cons of each.
Keep in mind that it can take several weeks to feel the full effects of an antidepressant. Additionally, it’s important to remember that on top of medications, talk therapy is a crucial part of depression recovery. Through talk therapy, a therapist can help you learn coping skills to manage your depression symptoms. For many people with depression, a combination of therapy and medication is the [most effective way to treat depression](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5244449/).
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist to aid in depression treatment, consider Talkiatry.
We’re a national psychiatry practice that treats a wide variety of mental health conditions, including mood disorders like depression. We provide virtual, in-network services so you can get the care you need from the comfort of your home. To get started, [complete our free online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment) to get matched with a psychiatrist.
## FAQs
### Which antidepressants have the least side effects?
The [general consensus](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8395812/) is that SSRIs are the antidepressants that have the least side effects and are best tolerated. However, every individual is different and responds to medications differently. Taking an SSRI doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have minimal side effects, but the odds are in your favor.
### Which antidepressants make you gain weight?
[Many antidepressants have a possible side effect of weight gain](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/antidepressants-that-cause-weight-loss-gain) –– but that doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely gain weight when you take them. However, research has found that certain medications across the classes of antidepressants—like Remeron (mirtazapine), TCAs, and MAOIs— are [more likely to cause weight gain](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-weight-gain/faq-20058127) than others. If you’re worried about this side effect, let your doctor know.
### What is the most effective antidepressant?
There is no single “best” or “most effective” antidepressant. Everyone is different and responds to medications differently. For example, while an SSRI might bring one person the most symptom relief, a TCA might be more effective for another person. Sometimes, it takes some trial and error to figure out what the most effective antidepressant is for you. Combining an antidepressant with talk therapy can also result in significant benefits.
Related article: [What is the best antidepressant for teens?](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/antidepressants-teenagers)
*Talkiatry is a mental health practice, and our clinicians review everything we write. However, articles are never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may need mental health help, talk to a psychiatrist. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.* |
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