Brain chemistry is still largely unknown, but here’s how scientists believe medication works

SSRIs

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors such as Sertraline, Citalopram, Prozac and Seroxat are mainly prescribed for depression, but can also help with anxiety and eating disorders. They are thought to act by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain and are widely prescribed as they are considered to have fewer side effects compared to ‘older’ antidepressants.

TricyclIc

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) such as Amoxapine and Doxepin are used to treat depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, generalised anxiety and OCD. They are also effective as analgesics used to treat chronic pain. They are thought to act by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.

SNRIs

Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are thought to ease depression by impacting neurotransmitters used to communicate between brain cells. They are similar to SSRIs but have a slightly broader effect and some people who don’t respond to SSRIs may benefit from an SNRI (although they have been found to cause more side effects). Brands include Duloxetine, Desvenlafaxine, Levomilnacipran, Venlafaxine, which have also been approved to treat anxiety and types of chronic and nerve pain

TO NOTE: Antidepressant medication is not effective for everybody and can cause side effects, including weight gain, dizziness, sexual dysfunction and very rarely, suicidal thoughts. They may make your symptoms worse before they get better and don’t start working immediately. Discuss anything you are worried about with your GP. For more information and advice visit mind.org.uk

Just one of your five-a-day? Why it's time to open up about taking antidepressants