What are the types of antidepressant medications?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

The main types of antidepressants include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, norepinephrine and specific serotonergic antidepressants, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which should be individually selected based on the patient's condition. Seek medical help if persistent depressive mood affects daily life.

Antidepressants mainly include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), norepinephrine and specific serotonergic antidepressants (NaSSAs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which should be individually selected based on the patient's condition. If persistent depressive mood affects daily life, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation for appropriate medication.

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These enhance serotonin concentration by inhibiting its reuptake, offering a mild onset and fewer side effects. They are suitable for mild to moderate depression. Common drugs include fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline, which are generally well-tolerated by patients.

2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Acting on both neurotransmitters, these have a relatively rapid onset and are suitable for moderate to severe depression, especially with anxiety symptoms. Common medications include venlafaxine and duloxetine. Blood pressure monitoring is required during treatment.

3. Norepinephrine and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants (NaSSAs): These regulate the balance between norepinephrine and serotonin, with minimal sedative effects. They are suitable for patients with depression accompanied by insomnia or anxiety. Mirtazapine is a representative drug, with relatively minor impact on appetite.

4. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): Classic antidepressants that work by blocking neurotransmitter reuptake. They are effective for severe depression. Common drugs include amitriptyline and imipramine. Due to relatively prominent side effects, they require cautious use.

5. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): These protect neurotransmitters by inhibiting monoamine oxidase and are used for treatment-resistant depression. Common drugs include phenelzine and moclobemide. Patients must strictly avoid tyramine-containing foods during treatment.

Antidepressant use requires adherence to medical guidance with adequate dosage and duration; self-adjusting or discontinuing medication is not advised. Medications should be taken at consistent times to maintain stable blood levels. A light, regular diet is recommended, with avoidance of alcohol. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule helps optimize treatment effectiveness.

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What is the name of imported antidepressant medications?

Imported antidepressants mainly include sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine, fluvoxamine, and citalopram. These drugs belong to different classes and have distinct mechanisms of action, so selection should be based on the type of depression and individual patient conditions. If symptoms such as persistent low mood and reduced interest occur, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation promptly to assess the need for medication.

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What to do every day for depression treated at home

For depression managed at home, it is essential to maintain a regular daily routine, engage in moderate exercise, practice emotional regulation, stay socially connected, and complete light daily tasks. Scientific planning of daily activities can support recovery and help avoid prolonged inactivity. If you experience suicidal thoughts, severe low mood, or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

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Can Guaifenesin, Pentoxyverine and Promethazine Granules be taken together with antidepressants?

In general, Vicks Pediatric Cough Granules (containing guaifenesin, pseudoephedrine, and chlorpheniramine) should not be taken together with antidepressant medications. If you are already using antidepressants while taking this medication, inform your doctor promptly so that a healthcare professional can adjust your treatment regimen or schedule appropriate time intervals between doses. Ensure adequate rest during treatment, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness—such as driving or operating machinery—after taking the medication.

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Can paroxetine be replaced with lorazepam?

Whether paroxetine can be switched to lorazepam should be evaluated by a doctor; a switch may be considered if it meets therapeutic needs and there are no contraindications. However, if the patient is taking paroxetine for treating depression or requires long-term control of anxiety symptoms, switching to lorazepam is generally not recommended. This is because lorazepam has a different mechanism of action (primarily indicated for short-term anxiety) and carries a risk of dependence with prolonged use.