Although it is primarily used to treat clinical depression, it can be used to treat other disorders. It works by altering the levels of serotonin in the brain. The most common reason to use an antidepressant is for treatment of a clinical depression. The decision to use a medication is ultimately the patient's. This is made in consultation with a physician.
Most psychiatric disorders respond to treatment with medications.
These therapies can be used with or without medications. In general the antidepressants are safe and well tolerated medications. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, sedation, headaches, agitation, and sexual dysfunction. Most of the time, side effects, if present, are mild and transient. These risks of medications must be balanced against the risks of the illness.