Doing this can lead to a condition called discontinuation syndrome that causes withdrawal-like symptoms. They may also want to see their doctor if they are on antidepressant or antianxiety medication and have been experiencing adverse effects. A doctor will usually take a medical history from the individual. Depending on the symptoms the person is experiencing, the doctor may also conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions. Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that breaks down chemicals such as serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine. When a person takes MAOIs, the levels of these chemicals in the brain increase, with a therapeutic effect.

Bupropion and mirtazapine are similarly effective to SSRIs and SNRIs and are considered first-choice options for treating depression. Trazodone may be preferred if a person has both depression and trouble sleeping. After reviewing the available research, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) concluded that no one antidepressant was more effective at treating depression than others.

Also known as clinical depression, MDD involves having at least five depressive symptoms every day for at least two weeks, among other diagnostic criteria. When your body’s serotonin or norepinephrine levels are either too high or too low, your mood can be affected. This can make you feel more anxious or worried and may even lead to more severe anxiety disorders or types of depression. Older antidepressant medications include tricyclics, tetracyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These drugs are prescribed less often than other medications because they tend to cause more side effects. Buspirone is used to treat both short-term anxiety and orange capsule adderall xr 30 mg chronic (long-lasting) anxiety disorders.

These may include new or increased suicidal thoughts, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are similar to SSRIs. They help regulate mood by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine.

Prozac isn’t hard on the heart like other antidepressants and can cause significant weight loss. Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed medication used to treat mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety. If you or someone you care about is struggling with depression, you may have considered taking medication. But with so many antidepressants available, which ones are the most effective?