Many top antidepressants on the market are designed to help all types of depressive disorders. But which antidepressant brands are the best for managing certain types of depression? Call 208.486.0130 to speak with someone from Northpoint Recovery about antidepressant information and our depression treatment programs in Idaho.
Addiction and Typical Antidepressants
It’s important to note that antidepressants change the brain’s chemical makeup. Some may abuse antidepressants, causing a co-occurring disorder. People with certain mood disorders are more likely to abuse prescription drugs. Antidepressants include the following types of drugs:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake (SNRIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
These should be taken as directed, and you should regularly see your doctor to ensure you’re not becoming addicted to your prescription.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine)
Cymbalta has been prescribed far more than any other antidepressant on the market. It’s suitable for treating depression, chronic pain, and anxiety. It isn’t recommended for those who drink alcohol, have liver or kidney issues, or have high blood pressure.
Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine)
Pristiq is the second most common antidepressant used for major depressive disorder (MDD). It relieves symptoms of depression and also lowers depressive relapse rates. Pristiq blocks the reuptake of brain chemicals, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
Viibryd (Vilazodone HCI)
Viibryd helps with depression because it adjusts serotonin levels in the brain. Compared to other antidepressants, Viibryd can be used for someone with severe kidney disease. However, it shouldn’t interact with drugs known as MAOIs.
Celexa (Citalopram)
Patients say that Celexa improves energy levels and heightens levels of well-being. As an SSRI, it restores the balance of serotonin in the brain. Citalopram causes fewer side effects than other antidepressants. However, it’s not ideal for those with heart or liver problems.
Lexapro (Escitalopram)
Lexapro is suitable for treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Not many side effects are involved, and drug interactions are minimal. For those suffering from liver or heart problems, Lexapro is not recommended. Lexapro also lowers the possibility of depression coming back.
Zoloft (Sertraline)
Zoloft helps people relax, so it’s good for depression and anxiety. It is also used for panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). One of the benefits of Zoloft in terms of tolerance is that it causes less sleepiness. It is also considered the best choice if someone is pregnant and needs antidepressants.
Desyrel (Trazodone)
Trazodone is used for MDD and insomnia associated with depression. It also treats anxiety disorders and alcohol addiction. This SSRI antidepressant improves mood, appetite, and energy levels. Anxiety and insomnia related to depression are also reduced.
Prozac (Fluoxetine)
Prozac gives people more energy than other antidepressants. That being said, it can be helpful for those with low energy. Fluoxetine treats many mental health issues, including depression, OCD, and panic disorder. Prozac isn’t hard on the heart like other antidepressants and can cause significant weight loss.
Paxil, Pexeva, Brisdelle (Paroxetine)
Paroxetine treats anxiety and depression. The issue is that it causes more undesirable side effects than other SSRI medications. It is more likely to decrease the libido and may even prevent ejaculation. Primarily, it is used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) so using it as an antidepressant isn’t ideal.
Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Luvox is the brand name that primarily treats obsessive-compulsive disorder. There is an immediate release and extended-release version of Luvox CR. It is used off-label for depression that doesn’t cause weight gain. Luvox CR is used for children with OCD and can be used for depression if other antidepressants are causing unwanted side effects.
Find Information About Antidepressants in Idaho at Northpoint Recovery
Antidepressants can be a helpful medication for many. But once you get off antidepressants, withdrawal symptoms may be challenging to manage. Recovery at an inpatient or outpatient clinic can help you manage your emotions through one-on-one and group therapy. Contact Northpoint Recovery today at 208.486.0130 to learn more about the top antidepressants on the market and how our programs in Idaho can help those struggling with depression.