antidepressant

American  

[an-tee-di-pres-uhnt, an-tahy-] / ˌæn ti dɪˈprɛs ənt, ˌæn taɪ- /

Also anti-depressant,

adjective

1. of or relating to a substance that is used in the treatment of mood disorders, as characterized by various manic or depressive affects.

---

noun

1. Also called energizer, psychic energizer.  any such substance, as a tricyclic antidepressant, MAO inhibitor, or lithium.

antidepressant British  

/ ˌæntɪdɪˈprɛsənt /

noun

1. any of a class of drugs used to alleviate depression

---

adjective

1. of or relating to this class of drugs

antidepressant Scientific  

/ ăn′tē-dĭ-prĕs′ənt,ăn′tī- /

1. A drug used to prevent or treat depression.

---

Etymology

Origin of antidepressant

First recorded in 1960–65; anti- + depressant

Example Sentences

For many people living with depression, standard antidepressant medications do not bring enough relief.

From Science Daily

"I've tried antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, benzos, sleeping pills and stimulants, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy... tai chi, reiki, meditation, veganism, art therapy and music therapy," the former stand-up comedian said.

From Barron's

They also scored higher on depression questionnaires and were more likely to have been prescribed antidepressant medications.

From Science Daily

Chloe, a toddler and baby sleep coach, said her mental health deteriorated and she was unable to take her antidepressants due to the severe sickness.

From BBC

Many people improve after trying a few treatments, but for as many as one-third of patients, standard antidepressants or psychotherapy do not provide enough relief.

From Science Daily