The Best Antidepressants

Prozac is easily the most famous antidepressant in the world. It is a recognized household name, even if not all of them would know that the drug is used as a treatment for depression. It is also one of the first medications to be classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, the first of a new breed of antidepressants that were touted to be safer and more effective. Among the SSRI generation of drugs, Prozac is also being marketed as the best at relieving the symptoms of depression, with the occasional use as a treatment for anxiety. However, a recent study seems to be poised to shatter that perception.

The study not only shatters the belief that Prozac is the most effective, it also makes the long-held belief of many in the medical profession that antidepressants are interchangeable completely wrong. The research data showed that Zoloft and Cipralex work with a slightly higher percentage of success than ten other commonly prescribed treatments for depression. The team even goes so far as to suggest that the two above be the first recommendations that a doctor makes when treating moderate to severe depression in their patients. These results run in contrast to previous studies that found very little differences between SSRI antidepressants.

Zoloft and Cipralex, produced by Pfizer and Forest Laboratories respectively, were found to be more effective than their other counterparts, making them the best options when taking factors like benefits, side effects, and cost into consideration. Other drugs tested were Celexa, the famous Prozac, Remeron, Zyban (which is better known as a treatment for smoking), Cymbalta, Efexor, Luvox, and Remeron. The criteria was based on established standards set prior to the examination period, as well as observations made during and after the period the patients were given the medications.