Antidepressant medications available online

Speak to a board-certified PlushCare doctor online and get antidepressant medications prescribed after your visit. Anti-depression pills, also called antidepressants, are clinically proven to help with depression treatment. Our licensed doctors can also refill prescriptions and offer depression treatment online and ongoing mental health support.*

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Better balance in serotonin levels

FDA-approved medications

Medications available for pharmacy pickup*

*Medications are prescribed at the sole discretion of a PlushCare physician. Prescriptions for non-controlled substances can only be written after a medical evaluation. Scheduling an appointment does not guarantee that a medication can or will be prescribed.

Antidepressant Medications

There are many different types of antidepressant medications, including Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Which antidepressant medications are best for you will depend on the severity of your depression, your general health, and your response to treatment. PlushCare doctors will work with you to decide which types of depression medication are best for you.

  • SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)

    SSRIs are most often used to treat depression. These drugs are effective for different severities of depression. They are also commonly used among patients who show signs of major depression.

    The main mechanism of SSRIs is to reduce the rate at which neurons in the brain reabsorb a neurotransmitter known as serotonin. This helps to increase the amount of serotonin that is available for the brain to use. Many individuals with depression symptoms have a lack of serotonin in their brains. By creating a better balance in serotonin levels, it is possible for the patient to experience a reduction in their symptoms of depression.

    Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are sometimes taken with other medications used to help reduce anxiety disorders and related symptoms. For example, the patient may use an SSRI to treat depression but also be given a fast-acting anti-anxiety medication to help cope with flare-ups of their anxiety symptoms.

    Examples of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors include:

  • SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)

    SNRIs are often used for severe depression or cases where the common SSRI does not seem to produce results in a certain period of time.

    Examples of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors include:

    Effexor (Venlafaxine)

    Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine)

    Cymbalta (duloxetine)

    Fetzima (Levomilnacipran)

    These are all SNRIs that are FDA approved for the treatment plan in patients who show signs of depression.

    SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs. With an SSRI, however, the medication only helps to increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. When you use an SNRI, the medication helps to boost the availability of both norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. This is thought to lead to a more significant improvement in symptoms.

    Sometimes, SNRIs are also used to assist in the treatment of symptoms in people who have chronic pain conditions. It is commonly used in cases where the individual have chronic pain that affect the nerves.

  • TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants)

    Examples of tricyclic antidepressants include:

    This type of antidepressant medication also works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, as well as norepinephrine. In addition to these particular neurotransmitters, cyclic antidepressants are also known to affect other types of chemicals that are involved in the development of depression.

    This depression medication is also sometimes used off-label for other conditions. People with neuropathic pain may find that the use of these drugs helps to provide improvements in their pain symptoms. Additionally, healthcare providers sometimes use this depression treatment for conditions like anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

  • MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)

    MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) are no longer considered a first line treatment for depression due to their potential side effects. While they were among the earliest medications developed to address depression, newer drugs are often considered more effective and have fewer risks. MAOIs are not typically managed by primary care physicians, but if this medication is warranted, a primary care physician would usually recommend a referral to psychiatry for further evaluation and management. 

    The main mechanism of these drugs is to reduce the activity of monoamine oxidase, which is a type of enzyme that can be found in the brain. This enzyme is known to play a role in removing certain chemicals from the brain, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. By reducing the activity of monoamine oxidase, the drug helps to provide increased availability for these particular neurotransmitters.

    Examples of MAOI antidepressants include:

    Parnate (Tranylcypromine)

    Nardil (Phenelzine)


  • Atypical antidepressants

    There are times when the patient's medical history and the findings of their doctor call for depression medicines that are not typical. The term "typical" refers to the antidepressant medication options that are usually used to treat depression symptoms. Atypical antidepressant medications do not belong in any of these categories but may still provide effective results in treating depression.

    Examples of atypical antidepressants include:

    These medications generally work in different ways than typical depression medicines. They may be provided as part of a depression treatment online. Note that even though a doctor may diagnose depression online, the patient will still require a prescription for these atypical antidepressants.

What to know about antidepressants

  • Can online doctors prescribe antidepressants?

    Yes. Online doctors can prescribe antidepressants to treat a variety of conditions. After diagnosing your condition, the doctor will prescribe the best antidepressant for you. They will electronically send this prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.


  • Who can prescribe antidepressants?

    Primary care physicians and psychiatrists are both qualified to prescribe antidepressants. At PlushCare, our primary care physicians commonly write prescriptions for antidepressants to treat anxiety and depression. For more complicated mental health conditions, a psychiatrist is recommended.

  • Can you buy antidepressants over the counter?

    Antidepressant medications require a prescription. You cannot buy antidepressants over the counter and for a good reason. Most antidepressants have some side effects and drug interactions, and if/which you’ll be prescribed should be left up to a doctor to determine.

  • Can you diagnose depression online?

    Yes. Our licensed doctors use the same guidelines and clinical tools to diagnose depression and anxiety online as a doctor would if you saw them in person. Schedule an appointment with a depression doctor at PlushCare today to get depression treatment online. PlushCare doctors can also help develop the right plan for you.

  • How long does it take for antidepressants to work?

    Antidepressants usually begin working within 6 weeks. It’s important to work with your doctor on finding an antidepressant medication that works for you. Since our brains are different, what works for one may not necessarily work for another.

  • Are there any psychiatric conditions you can’t help with?

    Online doctors are perfect for anyone with mild to moderate anxiety or depression. However, PlushCare isn’t a good solution for patients with bipolar, schizophrenia, or psychosis or for pregnant, breastfeeding, or having a history of suicide attempts.

  • Can PlushCare doctors refill my existing antidepressant?

    Yes, many of our patients see PlushCare doctors obtain refills of their antidepressant medications. Our doctors will provide a prescription refill if they determine that you qualify based on an online medical consultation. It’s convenient, and we accept all major insurance providers.

  • Can online doctors prescribe anxiety medication?

    Yes. Our doctors commonly write prescriptions for anxiety medication for patients who qualify; that said, they cannot write prescriptions for controlled substances such as Xanax and Klonopin.


  • How to find a depression doctor near me?

    If you’re looking for a depression doctor near you, look no further. PlushCare doctors are qualified to treat depression and practice entirely online, meaning they’re always accessible to you. Our doctors can prescribe antidepressants, and our therapists can offer you therapy. To find a depression doctor near you, book an online medical appointment at PlushCare to speak with one of our board-certified physicians.

  • How do doctors diagnose depression?

    Doctors can diagnose depression in several ways, including a physical exam or psychiatric evaluation. A physiatrist may refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to provide a diagnosis for depression.

  • How much do antidepressants cost?

    The cost of antidepressants will depend on factors such as the type of antidepressant medication, the dosage prescribed, and whether you have insurance coverage. Whether the antidepressant is, a brand-name or generic will also affect the cost.

  • How do doctors decide which antidepressant to prescribe?

    If a doctor decides that antidepressant medication would be an appropriate treatment, the antidepressant prescribed would be based on factors such as the patient's current symptoms, any other medications being taken, any pre-existing medical conditions, and the potential for side effects.

  • Can a therapist prescribe antidepressants?

    Only a licensed medical doctor or psychiatrist can prescribe antidepressants. While a therapist cannot prescribe antidepressants or depression medication, a therapist can refer a patient to a doctor or psychiatrist as part of their treatment for depression.

    PlushCare offers online therapy for depression as part of our online mental health services.

  • Can primary care physicians prescribe antidepressants?

    Yes, primary care physicians can work with you to prescribe antidepressants when necessary. This is great news for anyone working closely with their primary care doctor to create a comprehensive healthcare plan.


  • When are antidepressants prescribed?

    Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety, among other conditions.

    The American Psychiatric Association defines depression as a very serious medical illness that negatively affects how you think, act, and feel. When left untreated, it can greatly impact your overall quality of life, making it difficult to function or do what you used to enjoy. 

    Depression affects millions of Americans each year. Major depression is among the most commonly seen mental health conditions in the United States.

  • What are some symptoms of depression?

    While there are several symptoms of depression, some of the most commonly seen symptoms include:

    • Having a loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

    • Changes in appetite – weight loss/gain

    • Fatigue

    • Having a hard time concentrating

    • Sleep changes – this could be sleeping too much or not being able to sleep enough

    • Feeling sad

    • Feeling guilty and or worthless

    • Thoughts of suicide

  • What antidepressants can a primary care physician prescribe?

    Now that you know your primary care physician can prescribe antidepressants, let’s discuss which medications they can prescribe. Regarding medication choice, it will all come down to what you and your doctor think will work best based on your symptoms, other current medications, and your medical history.

    With that being said, here are some of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants:

    • Zoloft (sertraline)

    • Lexapro (escitalopram)

    • Cymbalta (duloxetine hydrochloride)

    • Celexa (citalopram)

    • Prozac (fluoxetine)

    • Paxil (paroxetine)

  • What can antidepressants be prescribed for?

    While antidepressants are most commonly prescribed for depression treatment, depending on the medication, they can also be prescribed for other reasons. Here are some of the conditions antidepressants are prescribed for. 


  • Can therapy treat depression?

    Yes, therapy is an effective treatment approach for depression. Many people with depression choose to try therapy instead of medication or do both at the same time for a faster recovery.

    PlushCare offers online therapy across the U.S. so that you can get emotional support from a licensed professional. Our trusted therapists are highly trained to treat many mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.  Start your first session with a licensed therapist today.

    You’ll meet with your therapist weekly for ongoing care and support as you work through your treatment.

    Many therapy patients report improved mood, raised energy levels, and reduced stress soon after starting therapy.

  • What Are Antidepressant Common Side Effects?

    Some common side effects of antidepressants include jitters, nausea, dry mouth, weight gain, fatigue, and loss of sex drive. Talk to your PlushCare doctor for a complete list of antidepressant side effects.

3 simple steps to getting antidepressant medications online

Step 1: Book an appointment

Step 1

Book an appointment to discuss antidepressant medications.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone

Step 2

Talk to your doctor online.

See a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy

Step 3

Pick up your antidepressant prescription from your online doctor.

We can send antidepressants to any local pharmacy.

Antidepressants pricing details

How pricing works

To get antidepressants online, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

  • We accept these insurance plans and many more:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • United Healthcare

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.