Get started
We’re in network with over 100 plans including:
See if we take yours using our insurance checker.
Close

Depression medication and treatment online

check mark in circle
100% online
check mark in circle
First visits in days
check mark in circle
Licensed prescribers

We’re in-network with 100+ insurance plans

+ more
Photo of psychiatrist viewing a laptop
Photo of psychiatrist viewing a laptop

How depression medication works online

Effective depression treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. Here’s what you can expect from your first steps with Talkiatry.

Initial Online Assessment

Mental health care at Talkiatry starts with a quick online form, where you’ll tell us more about your symptoms and what you’re looking for in a provider. We’ll share options for psychiatrists who match your needs.

Psychiatric evaluation

You’ll meet online with your psychiatrist to talk through your experiences. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms, family history, and medical history to evaluate whether depression could be a factor.

Personalized care plan

If your psychiatrist provides a diagnosis of depression, you’ll work together to create a care plan for your needs. Your treatment options may include medication, therapy, or both. You’ll have ongoing follow-ups to track progress and adjust as needed.

Types of depression medications

There are several types of medication for depression. Your psychiatrist will work with you to find the best option for your needs.

SSRIs

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) work to increase the level of serotonin in the brain, a chemical messenger that affects mood, emotion, and sleep. These medications are typically well tolerated, with a lower risk of side effects than other types of antidepressants, and are often the first-line medications for depression.

Common medications:

  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Paroxetine (Paxil)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Citalopram (Celexa)

SNRIs

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) increase the level of both serotonin and another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, in the brain. Like SSRIs, SNRIs are first-line depression medications that are typically well tolerated.

Common medications:

  • Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • Venlafaxine (Effexor)
  • Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
  • Milnacipran (Savella)

Atypical antidepressants

There are antidepressants that target different chemicals in the brain than SSRIs or SNRIs, referred to as atypical antidepressants. They can be a good fit if you have experienced side effects from other types of depression medication. They can be taken on their own or in combination with other medications that treat depression symptoms.

Common medications:

  • Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
  • Mirtazapine (Remeron)
  • Vortioxetine (Trintellix)

TCAs

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) also increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, but they are older medications that can affect more body systems than newer SSRIs or SNRIs. These medications may be an effective option when symptoms haven’t responded to first-line treatments, but they come with the potential for more side effects.

Common medications:

  • Elavil
  • Norpramin
  • Asendin
  • Silenor
  • Tofranil

MAOIs

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) work to prevent the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—chemicals in your brain that affect mood.

Common medications:

  • Marplan
  • Nardil
  • Emsam
  • Parnate

Why choose online care for depression

Real psychiatric expertise

Our licensed providers specialize in personalized, evidence-based mental health treatment.

Convenient and private virtual care

Skip the waiting room and commute, with virtual visits that fit your life.

Covered by insurance

We work with major insurers to keep high-quality care accessible.

Photo of psychiatrist viewing a laptop
Photo of psychiatrist viewing a laptop

How online depression treatment works at Talkiatry

You’ll work with your psychiatrist to create a care plan tailored to your needs. Here’s what to expect.

60-min initial visits

Your first appointment is a full hour. Your psychiatrist will ask about your symptoms and history, using standard diagnostic criteria to guide the conversation. If they make a diagnosis of depression, you’ll work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Refill management and check-ins

If you’re prescribed medication for symptoms of depression, you’ll continue to meet with your psychiatrist for ongoing medication management. You’ll track your progress at regular check-ins and make any adjustments to your treatment plan if needed.

Therapy referrals when needed

Treatment for depression often involves a combination of depression medication and therapy. If your provider feels you’d benefit from talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), they’ll provide recommendations for in person or online therapy. In some cases, we can refer you to an on-staff therapist.

Psychiatrists who make a difference

Our clinicians bring deep clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every visit, so you feel supported every step of the way.

  • 1 million+ visits completed
  • 300+ licensed psychiatrists
  • 90% of patients would recommend us to friends and family
Photo of psychiatrist viewing a laptop

Care by the numbers

1 million+

visits completed

300+

expert clinicians

90% of patients

would recommend us to family and friends

What our patients say

“I recommend Talkiatry to anyone that will listen. The benefits this network has provided me in such a short time are priceless and immeasurable.”

Nancy L., Ohio

“She is very relatable. She is mindful of cost of my medications.”

Joseph D., Colorado

“Great experience! Provider was ready early which was amazing and honestly never happens.  Really appreciate honoring a patient’s time.”

Jennifer C., Texas

Additional Depression Resources

Depression Symptoms

Learn more about how ADHD presents and how it feels.

Learn more ›

Depression Diagnosis

ADHD diagnoses are complex and need to come from a qualified clinician.

Learn more ›

Depression Treatment

The most common treatments involve medication, therapy, or both.

Learn more ›

As seen in

Press logo for Wall Street JournalPress logo for USA TodayPress logo for ForbesPress logo for TechCrunchPress logo for AxiosPress logo for Politico

Frequently asked questions

Can you be prescribed depression medication online?

Yes. If depression medication is a part of your treatment plan, our licensed psychiatrists can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe antidepressants during a telehealth visit. We’ll send your prescriptions to your local pharmacy electronically.

How long does it take for antidepressants to work?

Many people begin to experience a change in their mood, energy, or sleep within 2 to 4 weeks of taking their antidepressant, but it can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to experience the full effects. It varies by individual and by medication type. Your psychiatrist will track your progress and adjust your plan if needed.

Are antidepressants addictive?

No. Unlike benzodiazepines and other controlled substances with a risk of dependence, antidepressants are not addictive. However, they can still cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them abruptly. It’s important to work closely with your provider when starting or stopping any prescription medication.

Which antidepressants have the fewest side effects?

While side effects can vary by individual, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are often prescribed first because they typically have fewer side effects for many people. Your psychiatrist will consider your health history, symptoms, and past experiences to recommend a medication that’s likely to work well for you.

Can I take antidepressants while pregnant or breastfeeding?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Many medications for depression are safe to take during pregnancy, but some can lead to a higher risk of pregnancy loss or complications or health issues for the baby. To make informed treatment decisions, communicate openly with your psychiatrist about your pregnancy and health history.

Most medications transfer into breast milk at such low levels that they are considered safe to take while breastfeeding, but there are some exceptions. If you’re exploring your options for depression medication while breastfeeding, speak with your psychiatrist about the risks and benefits of taking medication, as well as the potential effects of leaving symptoms untreated.

Learn more about Depression medication online

July 22, 2023

What does depression feel like?

Read more ›
November 8, 2024

Signs Your Antidepressant Dose Is Too Low or Too High

Read more ›
January 24, 2025

Wellbutrin for Anxiety: Effects, Timing, and Considerations

Read more ›
December 6, 2024

ADHD and depression: Are they related?

Read more ›