Best Antidepressant in India

What Are Antidepressants and How Do They Work?

Depression affects over 56 million Indians, making it one of the most common mental health disorders in the country. Antidepressants are medications that adjust chemical imbalances in the brain—particularly serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—to improve mood, energy, and motivation.

Most antidepressants take 2–6 weeks to show full effects and are typically prescribed for moderate to severe depression or long-term mood disorders.

Top Antidepressants in India 

1. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Best SSRIs in India:

• Fluoxetine (Prozac, Flunil)
• Sertraline (Zoloft, Serdep)
• Escitalopram (Nexito, Lexapro)
• Paroxetine (Paxil, Parit)

Why Choose SSRIs?

They’re considered first-line treatment due to their safety, availability, and tolerability.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Sexual dysfunction
• Sleep disturbances

2. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)

Top Picks:

• Venlafaxine (Venlor)
• Duloxetine (Cymbalta, Dulex)

Often prescribed when SSRIs don’t work or when pain and anxiety are also present.

3. Atypical Antidepressants

These include:

• Bupropion (Wellbutrin) – Less sexual side effects, also used for smoking cessation
• Mirtazapine (Remeron) – Promotes sleep and appetite

Ideal for patients with insomnia or low appetite.

4. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Still used when newer drugs don’t work. Examples:

• Amitriptyline
• Nortriptyline

TCAs are effective but come with more side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and heart rhythm issues.

5. MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)

Rarely used due to dietary restrictions and serious drug interactions. Only prescribed when all other treatments fail.

Factors That Influence Antidepressant Choice

When selecting the best antidepressant in India, doctors consider:

• Type and severity of depression
• Existing medical conditions (e.g., thyroid, diabetes)
• Age, gender, and pregnancy
• Drug interactions
• Patient’s past treatment response
• Cost and availability

CBD for Depression: What You Need to Know

What is CBD?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it doesn’t cause a high. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate mood, sleep, and anxiety—similar to how SSRIs affect serotonin levels.

How CBD May Help with Depression

• Improves serotonin function
• Reduces anxiety symptom
• Improves sleep
• Anti-inflammatory effects, which may help mood regulation

Scientific Support

Though CBD is not yet a first-line treatment, clinical studies and user reports support its potential role in managing:

• Social anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Mild to moderate depression
• PTSD

Is CBD Legal in India?

 YES – With Conditions

Legal CBD in India must meet the following criteria:

• Derived from hemp (not cannabis)
• Contains less than 0.3% THC
• Sold under an Ayurvedic license (per Ministry of AYUSH)
• Requires a prescription from a registered medical practitioner

Caution:

CBD with higher THC content is regulated under the NDPS Act (1985). Always verify the source and THC percentage before purchasing.

CBD vs Antidepressants: Which Is Better?

Conclusion: Antidepressants are still the gold standard for severe or suicidal depression. But for mild depression, anxiety, or sleep issues, CBD can be a compelling natural alternative.

Side Effects of Antidepressants vs CBD

Antidepressant Side Effects:

• Headaches
• Weight gain or loss
• Low libido
• Emotional blunting
• Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly

CBD Side Effects:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Appetite fluctuation
• Diarrhea
• May interact with blood thinners or liver-metabolized drugs

FAQs About Depression Treatment in India

1. Can I buy antidepressants without a prescription in India?

Technically, no. All antidepressants are Schedule H drugs, requiring a doctor’s prescription.

2. Is CBD addictive?

No. Unlike THC, CBD has no addictive potential and is generally safe when used responsibly.

3. How do I know which antidepressant is best for me?

Only a psychiatrist can determine that after evaluating your symptoms, medical history, and response to previous medications.

4. Can CBD be used along with antidepressants?

Sometimes, yes—but only under strict medical supervision to avoid interactions.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best antidepressant in India isn’t just about the most effective pill—it’s about choosing the right treatment plan based on your unique mental, physical, and emotional needs.

About Qurist, India’s leading medical cannabis brand

Qurist, with its transparent, Indian-made CBD products, offers a credible option for those seeking gentle, plant-based tools to navigate long-term discomfort, always as part of a mindful, medically guided plan.

Qurist offers a wide range of products, providing everyday relief for our minds and bodies. These are:

• 100% natural
• Preservative-free
• Non habit-forming

(Disclaimer: ALWAYS speak to your doctor before starting CBD.)