Online prescriptions for antidepressants

Meet with a licensed psychiatrist or psychiatric NP online to discuss whether antidepressant medication is right for you. Book online or call to schedule. Appointments often available same day or same week.

Treatment for:
Depression, Major depressive disorder, Persistent depressive disorder, Related mood conditions

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360+ insurance plans accepted

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

FAQs about antidepressants

What are the side effects of antidepressants?

Common side effects of antidepressants include nausea and vomiting, weight changes, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness or insomnia, and sexual problems. Which side effects show up—and how strongly—depends on the specific medication, and everyone responds a little differently.

Side effects usually get better over time, as your body adjusts to the medication. Talk to your provider if any side effects bother you.

How long does it take for antidepressants to start working?

You may start to feel some benefit from an antidepressant within the first one to two weeks. This is also when you may experience side effects like nausea, headache, or diarrhea. It takes at least six to eight weeks, and up to 12 weeks, before most people feel the full benefits of an antidepressant.

For a closer look at what the first few weeks can look like, see what to expect when starting an SSRI.

Can I drink alcohol while taking antidepressants?

It’s best to speak with your provider if you plan to drink alcohol while taking an antidepressant. For some antidepressants, mixing alcohol can be dangerous. For example, it can raise seizure risk with bupropion (Wellbutrin). In other cases, alcohol may worsen medication side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Your provider can tell you what’s safe based on your specific medication.

What's the difference between SSRIs and SNRIs?

The main difference between SSRIs and SNRIs is which brain chemicals they affect. SSRIs slow down the reabsorption of serotonin, so more of it stays active between nerve cells. SNRIs do the same for both serotonin and norepinephrine.

Both are effective for treating depression and anxiety, but the extra effect on norepinephrine gives SNRIs a couple of practical differences. Some SNRIs, like duloxetine (Cymbalta), are also used to treat chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and diabetic nerve pain, since norepinephrine plays a role in how the body processes pain. SNRIs are also more likely to raise blood pressure, so an SSRI may be a better fit if you have high blood pressure or other heart-related risk factors.

Your provider will weigh your specific symptoms, other health conditions, and how you respond to treatment when deciding which class—and which specific medication—makes the most sense for you.

Can antidepressants cause weight gain?

Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of antidepressants, but not all antidepressants cause weight gain. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is more likely to lead to a small amount of weight loss. When weight gain does occur, it’s typically modest.

For a closer look at how specific medications compare, see does Zoloft cause weight gain? and does Wellbutrin cause weight gain or loss?

What if my antidepressant isn't working?

Antidepressants can take six to eight weeks, or longer, to reach their full effect, so it’s worth giving the medication time before assuming it isn’t working. If you’ve given it enough time and still aren’t feeling better, or the side effects are hard to manage, let your provider know.

It’s common to need to try more than one antidepressant before finding the one that works best for you. Depending on your situation, your provider might adjust your dose, switch you to a different medication, add a second medication, or recommend combining medication with therapy.

Can I get a prescription for antidepressants online?

Yes, you can often get a prescription online if your provider decides it’s clinically appropriate. If an antidepressant is a good fit, your provider can send the prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

 

Does insurance cover antidepressant consultations at Thriveworks?

Yes, Thriveworks accepts more than 360 insurance plans and most cover psychiatric services. You can check your coverage before booking, with no commitment required.

If you’re prescribed medication, whether that’s covered depends on your specific insurance plan. Coverage for prescription medications is separate from the coverage for psychiatric services, so we recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to ask about your prescription drug benefits. Ask about any copays or deductibles that may apply to psychiatric medications, as well as any restrictions or prior authorization requirements.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published September 27, 2024

We offer psychiatry in these select states

Our psychiatry services are primarily offered online, with in-person availability in select states.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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