SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. As this particular class of drugs typically has the least amount of side effects, SSRIs are usually the first types of antidepressants prescribed when treating depression. SSRIs include poplar brand name drugs like Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil and Celexa. Because SSRIs have been on the market for many years, a great deal of them are available in generic form.
SNRIs are serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. SNRIs are a newer class of drugs including Pristiq, Cymbalta and Effexor. As these are newer drugs, fewer are available as generics.
Tricyclic antidepressants usually have more serious side effects than SSRIs and SNRIs, so they are usually not the first drugs chosen by health care professionals when treating patients with depression. Tofranil, Norpramin, and Elavil are all tricyclics.
MAOIs are monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Due to the various dangerous side effects and interactions, MAOIS are rarely perscribed. However, when other classes of drugs prove ineffective for some patients, MAOIs may help to address the symptoms of depression. Drugs which are MAOIs include Marplan, Nardil, and Eldepryl.
