antidepresanlar

Antidepressants are a class of medications primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. They are also prescribed for a range of other conditions, including anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sometimes chronic pain. Antidepressants work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which are believed to play a role in mood regulation. Different types of antidepressants work in distinct ways. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed and increase serotonin levels. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are older classes of antidepressants with different mechanisms and often more side effects. The choice of antidepressant depends on the individual's symptoms, medical history, and potential side effects. It typically takes several weeks for antidepressants to become fully effective. Common side effects can include nausea, weight changes, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction, though these vary by medication. Antidepressants are usually taken orally. Stopping antidepressants abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, so tapering off the medication under medical supervision is generally recommended. Antidepressants are not a cure but a treatment to manage symptoms of depression and other conditions.