Antidepressant

Overview

Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression and various mood disorders by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. They help improve mood, sleep, appetite, and overall well-being. Our psychiatry department specializes in personalized antidepressant therapy, ensuring safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects.

Conditions Treated with Antidepressants

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Bipolar Disorder (as part of combination therapy)
Chronic Pain Syndromes (fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain)

Types of Antidepressants

We prescribe a range of antidepressants based on the patient’s condition, medical history, and response to treatment.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) – Most commonly prescribed due to their safety and effectiveness.
- Examples: Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Escitalopram, Paroxetine
- Benefits: Fewer side effects, effective for depression and anxiety
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) – Used for both depression and chronic pain conditions.
- Examples: Venlafaxine, Duloxetine, Desvenlafaxine
- Benefits: Helps with mood and physical pain symptoms
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) – Older class, effective but with more side effects.
- Examples: Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Imipramine
- Benefits: Used when other treatments fail
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) – Used for severe, treatment-resistant depression.
- Examples: Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine
- Benefits: Effective but requires dietary restrictions
Atypical Antidepressants – Work differently from other antidepressants.
- Examples: Bupropion (used for depression and smoking cessation), Mirtazapine (helps with sleep and appetite)

Diagnosis & Prescription Process

Before prescribing antidepressants, we conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including:

Clinical Assessment: Discussing symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
Psychological Screening: Using standardized tests to assess depression severity.
Blood Tests: Checking for underlying conditions (thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies).
Medication History: Reviewing previous treatments to determine the best approach.

Treatment Plan & Monitoring

Initial Dosage & Titration: Starting with a low dose and adjusting as needed.
Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring response, side effects, and effectiveness.
Combination Therapy: When necessary, combining antidepressants with psychotherapy for optimal results.
Managing Side Effects: Addressing nausea, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, or weight changes.

Duration of Treatment

Acute Phase (First 6–12 weeks): Symptom relief begins, but full effects may take time.
Continuation Phase (6–12 months): Prevents relapse and stabilizes mood.
Maintenance Phase (12+ months): For chronic cases, long-term treatment is considered.

When to Seek Help

If you experience persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep disturbances, or suicidal thoughts, seeking timely psychiatric care can help improve quality of life. Our team ensures safe and evidence-based antidepressant therapy tailored to individual needs.