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What are the different types of antidepressants?
There are several different types of antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and atypical antidepressants. Each type works differently in the brain to alleviate symptoms of depression.
What are SSRIs?
SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are a commonly prescribed type of antidepressant. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. This helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro).
What are SNRIs?
SNRIs, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, are another type of antidepressant. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters, in the brain. This dual action helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Examples of SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
What are TCAs?
TCAs, or tricyclic antidepressants, were one of the first types of antidepressants developed. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. However, TCAs often have more side effects compared to newer antidepressants and are not commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment. Examples of TCAs include amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor).
What are MAOIs?
MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are an older type of antidepressant. They work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which helps increase the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. MAOIs are generally reserved for cases where other antidepressants have not been effective, as they have a higher risk of interactions with certain foods and medications. Examples of MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate).
What are atypical antidepressants?
Atypical antidepressants are a diverse group of antidepressants that do not fit into the other categories. They work on different neurotransmitters and have varying mechanisms of action. Examples of atypical antidepressants include bupropion (Wellbutrin), mirtazapine (Remeron), and trazodone (Desyrel).
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