However, it may be less helpful for depression with anxiety features. SSRI antidepressants can boost serotonin levels, which can help ease symptoms to treat these conditions. A 2019 paper reviewed previous studies from 1990 to June 2019 on antidepressant effectiveness. The authors noted all reviews generally showed that antidepressants were effective, but only marginally effective.

A healthcare professional can help you find the best course of treatment for your anxiety. These include (but are not limited to) imipramine (aka Tofranil), amitriptyline (Elavil) and desipramine (aka Norpramin). SSRIs and SNRIs have supplanted use of these and MAOIs mainly due to safety profile (e.g. these are more dangerous to overdose on). These may also have more cardiac risks (on average) than SSRIs and SNRIs. These may be a good choice for those experiencing both anxiety and depression.

With adequate treatment, 70–80% of people with depression may experience a significant reduction in their symptoms. The most suitable treatment will depend on a person’s symptoms, co-occurring conditions, and the severity of their condition. Some medications can treat both conditions, while others are more suited to treating either anxiety or depression. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all antidepressants carry black box warnings, the strictest warnings for prescriptions. Luvox is the brand name that primarily treats obsessive-compulsive disorder. There is an immediate release and extended-release version of Luvox CR.

These medications have been shown to work better than placebo in adults, with some of the most helpful options being SSRIs like Lexapro (escitalopram) and SNRIs like Effexor (venlafaxine). If you or someone you know are having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and connect with a trained counselor. For more mental health resources, see the National Helpline Database. Your first choice of antidepressant may work, but like many others considering antidepressants for the first time, you may need to try a few before finding the right fit. Changes to your dosage or medications may also be necessary in the future.

For example, SSRI overdoses can cause high blood pressure and certain types of arrhythmias. It’s important to remember that psychotherapy is another important part of depression treatment. Combining psychotherapy and depression medication will usually produce the largest improvement in your symptoms. Treatment usually lasts at least six months after you start to feel better. If you have recurrent, chronic or buy morphine online severe depression, your provider may recommend taking the antidepressant for the foreseeable future.