Medication Guide
Understanding your psychiatric medications, their effects, and what to expect during treatment.
Important Notice
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice from your provider. Always discuss any questions or concerns about your medications with your prescriber before making any changes to your treatment.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood and emotions. They are used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and certain chronic pain conditions.
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Antipsychotics
Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood and emotions. They are used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and certain chronic pain conditions.
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Mood Stabilizers
Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood and emotions. They are used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and certain chronic pain conditions.
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SSRIs
Sertraline (Zoloft) • Escitalopram (Lexapro) • Fluoxetine (Prozac) • Paroxetine (Paxil) • Citalopram (Celexa)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors increase serotonin availability in the brain. First-line treatment for depression and anxiety.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Headache
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Weight changes
GI upset
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
SNRIs
Venlafaxine (Effexor) • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) • Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often used when SSRIs are not effective or for chronic pain.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Elevated BP
Dry Mouth
Discontinuation Syndrome
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Wellbutrin SR • Wellbutrin XL • Forfivo XL
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI). Unique mechanism with fewer sexual side effects. Also used for smoking cessation.
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry Mouth
Headache
Agitation
Decreased Appetite
Seizure Risk (dose dependent)
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Remeron • Remeron SolTab
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressant (NaSSA). Helpful for insomnia and appetite stimulation.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Dizziness
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Trazodone
Desyrel • Oleptro
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Often used at low doses for insomnia due to sedating properties.
Common Side Effects
Sedation
Dry Mouth
Headache
Orthostatic hypotension
Priapism (rare)
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Amitriptyline (Elavil) • Nortriptyline (Pamelor) • Imipramine (Tofranil) • Doxepin
Older class affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Used for treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain, and migraine prevention.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sedation
Weight gain
Cardiac effects
Urinary retention
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Informed Consent Example for Antidepressants
I understand that: Antidepressant medications typically take 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect. I should not expect immediate improvement and will continue taking the medication as prescribed even if I do not notice changes right away. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, changes in sleep patterns, sexual dysfunction, and weight changes. Most side effects improve within the first few weeks of treatment. I should not abruptly stop this medication without consulting my provider, as this may cause discontinuation symptoms. When stopping, my dose will be gradually tapered. I will contact my provider immediately if I experience worsening depression, new or increased thoughts of self-harm, unusual changes in behavior, or severe side effects. FDA Warning: Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial weeks of treatment. Close monitoring is essential during this period.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.
Black Box Warning
Antidepressants may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) during the first few months of treatment. Close monitoring is required, especially during initial therapy and dose changes.