Physical and Psychological Outcomes of Pharmacological Treatment for Depressive Disorder

Abstract

Depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions, exerting wide-ranging effects on individual health, social functioning, and overall quality of life. The present study aims to examine the physical and psychological outcomes of antidepressant medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), in the treatment of depressive disorder. This descriptive–analytical research was conducted through the review and analysis of scientific books, peer-reviewed articles, and credible online sources. Findings indicate that antidepressants are generally effective in reducing depressive symptoms, improving mood, and enhancing patients’ quality of life; however, each pharmacological class presents specific outcomes and limitations. SSRIs and SNRIs, due to their high efficacy and relatively favorable tolerability, are most often prescribed as first-line treatments but are associated with side effects such as nausea, sexual dysfunction, weight changes, sweating, and emotional blunting. MAOIs, although effective in treating atypical depression, are less commonly used because of the risk of hypertensive crisis and dietary restrictions. TCAs, while beneficial for mood and sleep improvement, are associated with side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, weight gain, and cardiotoxicity in overdose cases. In general, selecting an appropriate antidepressant should be based on symptom severity, patients’ physical and psychological conditions, and the likelihood of side effects. Furthermore, combining pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy and lifestyle modification may maximize treatment effectiveness and minimize adverse outcomes.