In this article we will describe what are the 10 most common antidepressants.
Here goes.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
These are the most prescribed type of antidepressant. They are powerful drugs and effective. Fluoxetine is the best known of the SSRIs.
Other SSRIs include: citalopram, escitalopram, paroxetine, and sertraline. They are a strong and important group of drugs. They include:
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
These are similar to SSRIs. Common ones include:
Other types of antidepressant
There are other antidepressants that are prescribed less frequently, including: paroxetine, selegiline and vortioxetine. These are not often prescribed because of the benefits and safety of the medications listed above. However, they work better for some people and in particular specialist cases.
We have described what are the top 10 most common antidepressants. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant in the UK.
When choosing an antidepressant your doctor will discuss your history and symptoms, and past and present medication. So the right antidepressant can be prescribed to suit your presentation and needs.
Reviewed by Dr Brad Neal, Registrar in Psychiatry