Antidepressants are a key component in the treatment of depression and other mood disorders. They are classified into several classes based on their mechanism of action, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), and atypical antidepressants such as Mirtazapine, Bupropion, and Agomelatine. Below is an overview of these classes with a comprehensive list of both generic and brand names used in Australia.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Mechanism: Increase levels of serotonin in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake into the presynaptic cell.
- Commonly used SSRIs in Australia:
- Citalopram (Cipramil)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro, Esipram)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac, Lovan)
- Paroxetine (Aropax)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Mechanism: Increase levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine by inhibiting their reuptake.
- Commonly used SNRIs in Australia:
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- Venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
- Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants)
- Mechanism: Block the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, but also affect other receptors, leading to more side effects.
- Commonly used TCAs in Australia:
- Amitriptyline (Endep, Tryptanol)
- Nortriptyline (Allegron)
- Imipramine (Tofranil)
- Clomipramine (Anafranil)
MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
- Mechanism: Inhibit the monoamine oxidase enzyme, which breaks down serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, thus increasing their levels.
- Commonly used MAOIs in Australia:
- Phenelzine (Nardil)
- Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
Atypical Antidepressants
- Mirtazapine (Remeron, Avanza)
- It enhances the release of norepinephrine and serotonin while blocking certain serotonin receptors.
- Bupropion (Zyban, Wellbutrin [not marketed in Australia for depression, but used for smoking cessation as Zyban])
- Inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine.
- Agomelatine (Valdoxan)
- Agonist at melatonin receptors and antagonist at serotonin receptors.
This classification provides a broad overview of the various types of antidepressants available in Australia, including their generic and brand names. Each class has a unique mechanism of action and is selected based on the patient’s specific symptoms, side effect profiles, and response to treatment. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication for an individual’s condition.