This variety of classes can help individualize medication treatment to address a person’s specific needs.

This article will discuss the types of medications used to treat MDD.

If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.

Close up of antidepressant drug Zoloft pills

Getty Images / Bloomberg / Contributor

What Is the Most Effective Medication for Major Depressive Disorder?

This analysis looked at 16 antidepressant medications, seven psychotherapies, and five combinations of antidepressant and psychotherapy treatments.

One option to consider that may help you find the best antidepressant medication and minimize side effects ispharmacogenetic testing.

Lindsay Cook, PharmD

Talk to your healthcare provider if you are curious about pharmacogenomic testing and whether it may optimize your treatment.

It has been growing in popularity and investigation as a depression treatment in recent years.

Other Treatments for Major Depressive Disorder

Interventions beyond medication play a large role in treating depression.

There are many different types and styles of therapy that can contribute to a successful depression treatment plan.

Summary

Many drug classes exist to treat major depressive disorder.

These include SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, antipsychotics, and more.

All of these groups of medications can improve symptoms of MDD and significantly impact quality of life.

2020;25(2):321-338.

Rush AJ.Patient education: depression treatment options for adults (beyond the basics).

2020;7(7):581-601.