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SSRI = selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor; TCA = tricyclic antidepressant; + = use of this medication could relieve the symptom; – = use of this medication could worsen the symptom.
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aIn general, doses should start low and increase slowly. This list does not
indicate absolute indications or contraindications for particular medications.
A current Physicians' Desk Reference or another reliable drug information
resource and experience should guide clinical decision making.
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bAlthough all SSRIs have the potential paradoxical side effect of
hypersomnia, fluoxetine is particularly activating. Bupropion is also somewhat
activating.
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cSedating antidepressants are useful for insomnia, either alone or in
addition to another antidepressant. Trazodone and mirtazapine are often used as sleep aids in
combination with another antidepressant.
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dSome antidepressants are useful in treating neuropathic pain. The most
studied of these are the TCAs, particularly amitriptyline.
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eSedating antidepressants are most useful for anxious/agitated patients.
These include the TCAs, trazodone, mirtazapine, and nefazodone.
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