Antidepressants
SSRIs, SNRIs and other antidepressant classes for depression and anxiety fill this range, as tablets and capsules. Recognisable names include Lexapro, Zoloft, Cymbalta and Effexor XR.
Fluoxetine Capsules
10mg · 20mg
Fluoxetine capsules for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It increases serotonin in the brain to regulate mood.
Effexor Xr
37.5mg · 75mg · 150mg
Venlafaxine capsules for depression and generalised anxiety. They raise both serotonin and noradrenaline, a broader action than SSRIs.
Trintellix
10mg
Vortioxetine tablets for major depressive disorder. It targets serotonin reuptake and receptors to help balance mood.
Key points
- The NHS groups antidepressants into SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics and other classes.
- NICE recommends discussing expected benefits, possible side effects and withdrawal effects whenever an antidepressant is offered.
- NICE advises reducing the dose in stages when stopping an antidepressant, rather than stopping abruptly.
- Not every product here treats depression: Zyban is listed for smoking cessation and Lyrica for nerve pain and seizures.
SSRIs, SNRIs and other antidepressant classes
Escitalopram is the SSRI in Lexapro, and sertraline is the SSRI in Zoloft, both listed for major depressive disorder. Fluoxetine is another SSRI, sold as Fluoxetine Capsules for depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bulimia nervosa. Cymbalta (duloxetine), Effexor XR (venlafaxine) and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) are SNRIs; Cymbalta is also listed for diabetic nerve pain and fibromyalgia. Trintellix (vortioxetine) is a further antidepressant listed for major depressive disorder.
Nerve pain, seizures and other listed uses
Lyrica (pregabalin) is an anticonvulsant listed here for neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia and seizures rather than depression. Zyban contains bupropion and is listed for smoking cessation. Seroquel (quetiapine) is an antipsychotic also listed for major depressive disorder as an adjunct treatment, alongside schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.
Further reading
Which antidepressants are available on Direct Meds?
Direct Meds lists 10 antidepressants. Together they contain 10 different active ingredients, including escitalopram, sertraline and fluoxetine. Examples include Lexapro and Zoloft; all 10 medicines are listed on this page.
What are antidepressants used for?
Between them, the antidepressants on Direct Meds are used for major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and fibromyalgia.
In what forms are antidepressants sold?
Mostly as tablets, with some capsules. The forms and strengths are listed on each product page.
Which of these antidepressants is right for me?
Start with the active ingredient: there are 10 different ones in this range. Products with the same active ingredient contain the same medicine. Compare their strength, form and price per unit. Each product page's details table lists uses, how quickly it works, side effects and interactions. If you take other medicines, are pregnant or have a long-term condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
Are the antidepressants on Direct Meds generics?
Mostly, yes. Names such as Lexapro and Zoloft identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength. Another medicine, Effexor XR, is listed under its own name; for it you receive a branded generic or generic with the same active ingredient, depending on stock.
What you will receive →How much do antidepressants cost in South Africa?
Compare each medicine, strength and pack on its product page. Prices are shown in rand, converted from US dollars, so the final rand total can change with the exchange rate. Larger packs usually cost less per unit.
Payment and prices →Are antidepressants available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order antidepressants. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →How do I order antidepressants for delivery in South Africa?
Choose a product, strength and pack, then check out. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →Related articles
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