Medication for Depression: Types, Prescription Medications, and Online Care

At Talkiatry, we know that navigating mental health can feel overwhelming. Our mission is to make it easier—starting with information you can trust. As a national mental health practice with over 600 psychiatrists and other providers, we combine clinical excellence with real-world understanding to deliver incredible care and reliable information. This article has been medically reviewed by the same doctors who treat our patients every day, ensuring it meets the highest standards. Whether you’re seeking care now or simply looking to learn more, we’re here to help.

If you or someone you care about has experienced depression, you know it’s more than just feeling sad. Depression is a real, diagnosable mental health condition that can affect every part of life. It’s also incredibly common, and most importantly, it’s treatable. 

It’s easy to downplay the signs or think you should just “tough it out,” but depression isn’t a personal failure—it’s a health condition, and it can happen to anyone. Getting support starts with a real diagnosis from a mental health professional, like a psychiatrist. From there, treatment options—including medication with therapy—can help you start feeling more like yourself. 

What are antidepressants? 

In simple terms, antidepressants work by boosting or balancing neurotransmitters—the natural substances in your brain that help regulate mood—to ease symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. The effect is to help stabilize your mood and lessen the symptoms of depression. They can be powerful tools, but should always be prescribed by a qualified professional. 

Types of antidepressants 

There are several different types of antidepressants, each with its own way of helping to manage depression symptoms. Here's how they work: 

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – These are among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. Here’s how they work: Your brain and body naturally produce a chemical messenger called serotonin. This hormone is associated with positive feelings and mood regulation. Normally, the body reabsorbs serotonin after it’s done its work. SSRIs prevent the body from absorbing (reuptaking) serotonin, making more available to your system. Common examples include sertraline (Zoloft) and escitalopram (Lexapro). 

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) – These medications increase both serotonin and norepinephrine, two key chemicals that influence mood and energy levels. Common SNRIs include duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor). 

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) – These are less common as a first-line treatment, but similar to SNRIs, tricyclics affect serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Examples include amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor). 

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) – These target a different chemical pathway by blocking the enzyme that breaks down mood-related neurotransmitters. Because they can interact with certain foods and medications, MAOIs like phenelzine (Nardil) are usually prescribed only when other treatments haven't helped. MAOIs can present health risks or interact poorly with other medications. Be sure to consult with a doctor and let them know about all medications and supplements you’re taking before starting a course of MAOIs. 

Atypical antidepressants – These don’t fit neatly into the other categories but are still effective. The list of atypical antidepressants is wide-ranging.  

• Bupropion (Wellbutrin), mirtazepine, and remeron, for example, work on dopamine and norepinephrine and are often used for people who experience fatigue or low motivation as part of their depression. 
• Serotonin partial agonist reuptake inhibitors (SPARIs) boost serotonin levels, like traditional antidepressants, but also act on serotonin receptors in a more targeted way. Common SPARIs are vilazodone and trintellix.
• Atypical antipsychotics like Abilify and Rexulti work by balancing both dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. 

Based on your goals and what might be most effective for your specific case, your doctor will work with you to choose a course of treatment you’re comfortable with. Remember, medication doesn’t work if it stays on the shelf, so if you have concerns or questions about medication, your doctor will be there to help you make an informed choice—and one you feel good about. The right treatment depends on your specific diagnosis, and there are many types of mood, anxiety, and behavioral health conditions that can influence which antidepressant is most effective. 

Benefits of antidepressants 

Research shows that antidepressants can significantly improve symptoms for many people with depression. They can lift mood, boost energy levels, help with sleep, and restore a sense of interest and enjoyment in daily life. While no medication is a “cure” or a “quick fix,” antidepressants can help restore balance so you feel more like yourself. 

Certain kinds of depression can be episodic, meaning they could come back after a course of medication. That’s completely normal. We do want to note that you should never stop antidepressants on your own. Abruptly going off a medication can cause health concerns. Talk with your clinician about your progress and how you’re feeling. They’ll be there to help you stop safely.

Side effects of antidepressants 

If you’ve never taken medication for mental health before, it can feel like a big step. Concerned about side effects? That’s normal, too. Fortunately, with antidepressants, most are mild and temporary. Many people don’t experience any at all. 

Your psychiatrist will walk you through what to expect and can answer any questions you might have, so you feel confident and informed. They’ll also usually begin with a smaller dose to ease the transition and get a better understanding of how your unique body reacts. 

Here are some of the more common side effects, how often they happen, and how they can be managed: 

• Weight gain: Some people notice a change in appetite or weight. Staying active and getting balanced nutrition can help minimize the effects.
• Headaches or dizziness: Staying hydrated and being mindful about getting up slowly from sitting or lying down can reduce the impact. Over-the-counter pain relief is also an option if approved by your doctor.
• Nausea: This is more common early in treatment and typically improves within 1–2 weeks. Taking medication with food or at night can ease any discomfort.
• Sleep changes: Depending on the medication, people report drowsiness, increased alertness, or trouble sleeping (insomnia). Others report more vivid dreams. Taking medication in the morning (if it causes alertness) or evening (if it causes drowsiness), practicing good sleep hygiene, and discussing alternatives with your doctor can be helpful. 

Always communicate any side effects with your provider. They can help by making adjustments, providing additional guidance on how to minimize side effects, or finding a new course of care. 

Who can prescribe antidepressants

If you’re interested in exploring whether medication is right for you, it’s important to find the right provider who can help. Not all providers can prescribe medication. Here’s a quick breakdown of the ones who can: 

• Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who specialize in mental health.
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (NPs): Advanced practice nurses with specialized training in mental health.
• Primary Care Physicians (PCPs): General doctors, such as family medicine doctors or internists.
• Physician Assistants (PAs): Medical professionals who work under the supervision of a physician.
  

At Talkiatry, we have on-staff psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners who are here to help. They can both prescribe medication. Our clinicians are all fully vetted and in-house. Using our unique matching process, we’ll find a top-recommended clinician who’s the best fit for you. If antidepressants are right for you, they can prescribe medication virtually. Medication isn’t the end of the process. You’ll have a follow-up with that same provider to talk about your progress and any side effects. During the process, it's normal to make adjustments to your dosage to achieve the best possible results. 

How online medication for depression works 

Online psychiatric care has made it easier than ever to find high-quality mental health support. Instead of waiting weeks or months for an in-person appointment, you can connect with an experienced psychiatrist from the comfort of your home in days. 

That said, online care isn’t the right fit for every situation. Some people with more complex or severe mental health conditions may need in-person evaluation or a higher level of care. The best way to know what’s right for you is by speaking with a licensed psychiatric professional who can listen to your experience and guide you toward the best treatment path. 

If you choose to pursue online care, here’s what you can expect: 

• Initial screening: You'll start by answering a few questions about your symptoms, health history, and goals. This helps your provider get a basic understanding of what you're experiencing. If it’s your first time seeking care, here’s what to expect during your first mental health appointment.
• Full evaluation: You’ll meet virtually with a licensed psychiatrist for a more in-depth conversation.
• Diagnosis and treatment plan: Your provider will build a care plan tailored to your needs.

At Talkiatry, our psychiatrists tailor your care plan to fit your life—and they’re with you every step of the way. 

How online depression treatment works at Talkiatry 

You’ll complete a short online intake form about your symptoms and preferences. Based on your answers, we’ll match you with a psychiatrist who fits your needs. After your first virtual appointment, you’ll work together on a treatment plan that may include medication, therapy referrals, or lifestyle support—all designed to help you feel better. 

Psychiatrists who make a difference 

Our highly trained psychiatrists are experts in treating depression and related conditions. They don’t just prescribe medication—they listen, collaborate, and create personalized plans to support your long-term mental health.