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Some patients in need of antidepressants take prescription medications as directed by their consulted professionals. Learn more about antidepressants below.

What are Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are medications designed to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. They are commonly prescribed for people dealing with mental health challenges. These medications come in various forms, and the consulted professional will work with the patient to determine the most suitable option.

How Do They Work?

Antidepressants operate by altering the levels of specific chemicals in the brain associated with mood and emotion. These chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, include serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. By adjusting these levels, antidepressants aim to mitigate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Typically, antidepressants take around two to three weeks to demonstrate their effectiveness. There is no fixed duration for taking these medications; the doctor will tailor the treatment plan based on a person's needs, possibly recommending a continuation for six months after symptom relief to prevent recurrence.

When Do You Need Them?

Antidepressants may be prescribed if the patient experiences persistent low mood or symptoms of depression, as well as for other mental health issues like anxiety. It is important to explore various treatment options, including physical activity programs, therapy, light therapy, mindfulness and self-help techniques, alongside medication.

The patient must communicate any side effects to the doctor promptly. Different antidepressants may produce different side effects, ranging from nausea and headaches to sexual dysfunction. The doctor can adjust the patient's dosage or switch medications to minimize these effects.

Side Effects

Antidepressants can yield various side effects, which may differ depending on the type of medication. SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs each come with their own set of potential side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, drowsiness and sexual dysfunction.

Moreover, there is a risk of increased suicidal thoughts, especially in children, teens and young adults, during the initial stages of treatment. This makes close monitoring by their respective healthcare professionals a crucial part of the treatment.

While antidepressants can be effective in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, they are not without risks. It is important to work closely with a doctor to find the most suitable medication and dosage, while also considering alternative treatments and lifestyle adjustments to support your mental health journey.