What type of medication is used to alleviate symptoms of depression?

Antidepressants are a class of medications specifically used to alleviate symptoms of depression by targeting the neurotransmitters in the brain that influence mood. These medications can help improve mood, increase energy levels, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals experiencing depression. They work by various mechanisms to balance brain chemistry, which is thought to contribute to mood disorders.

While other classes of medications, such as atypical antipsychotics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also play a role in treating depression, they are generally considered types of antidepressants. Atypical antipsychotics may be used as adjunctive treatment in some cases but are primarily intended for other conditions. SSRIs, specifically, are a subset of antidepressants known for their effectiveness in treating depression by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, thereby increasing its availability in the brain.

Antihypertensive medications are used to manage high blood pressure and do not have a primary role in alleviating symptoms of depression.