antidepressanttia

Antidepressants are a class of medications used to treat depressive disorders and other mood and anxiety conditions. They work by altering the activity of brain chemicals involved in mood regulation, primarily serotonin, norepinephrine, and/or dopamine. The goal is to improve mood, energy, sleep, and functioning. They are not painkillers or stimulants, and they do not produce immediate effects; benefits typically emerge after several weeks of regular use.

The major classes include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and atypical antidepressants. SSRIs (for example fluoxetine, sertraline, escitalopram) increase serotonin availability by blocking its reuptake. SNRIs (such as venlafaxine, duloxetine) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. TCAs are older drugs with broader effects and more side effects; MAOIs require dietary restrictions and are used less commonly. Atypical antidepressants, including bupropion and mirtazapine, have diverse mechanisms and are chosen when others are not suitable. Newer options such as vortioxetine add additional pharmacology. The choice depends on symptoms, side effect profiles, comorbid conditions, and prior response.

Antidepressants are prescribed for major depressive disorder and dysthymia, as well as anxiety disorders, obsessive–compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. They can also help with chronic pain and sleep disturbances. Treatment often requires several weeks to assess efficacy, with dose adjustments as needed. Discontinuation should be gradual to avoid withdrawal symptoms, and some drugs can interact with other medications. Caution is advised in bipolar disorder, where antidepressants may trigger mood switching without a stabilizer. Overall, antidepressants are a central component of many treatment plans, frequently combined with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes.