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Types of Antidepressants

© Faith Hamby

Antidepressants come in three main types: MAOIs, SSRIs and tricyclics.

The newest antidepressants tend to be SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. As their name suggests, they work selectively and primarily on a specific neurotransmitter in the brain--serotonin.

Of the three types of antidepressants, SSRIs have a reputation for having the least side effects. The side effects of SSRIs are often described as 'annoying' more than anything else, though the side effects can range from headache and agitation to sexual problems.

The most well known antidepressants of the SSRI family are Prozac, Luvox and Paxil.

The tricyclic antidepressants are not named for the neurotransmitter they act upon, but for their chemical composition. They've been in use for years and typically target major depression.

Tricyclics' side effects overlap with SSRIs' side effects to a certain extent--sexual dysfunction, increased drowsiness when taken with alcohol, sun sensitivity--but their side effects also differ. Tricyclic antidepressants can cause blurred vision, dry mouth and intestinal problems.

Some of the brand name tricyclic antidepressants are Elavil, Anafranil, Norpramin and Vivactil.

MAOIs, or monoamineoxidase inhibitors, are perhaps the oldest and most unstable form of antidepressants. These antidepressants are not as commonly used as the tricyclics or SSRIs, though they often work well for people whose depression does not respond to other medications.

Like the SSRIs, MAOI antidepressants are named for the chemical substance that they block in the brain--monoamineoxidase. The unfortunate side affect of these antidepressants, however, is their reactivity level. People who take MAOIs need to avoid certain foods, such as cheese and alcohol, as well as certain medications.

The most common forms of MAOI antidepressants are Nardil and Parnate.

Before any doctor prescribes one of the above antidepressants, they should be sure to evaluate the length and severity of their patient's depression. All side effects should be considered and explained. Ask for any literature the doctor might have on hand about the medication they wish to prescribe. And never attempt to self-medicate or cease taking antidepressants without first consulting a qualified physician.

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