There are nuanced differences in these drugs’ licensed indications relating to depression. A standard indication for citalopram is to treat depressive illness in the initial phase and as a maintenance against potential relapse or recurrence. A therapeutic indication of treating major depressive episodes is also available.¹¹

Escitalopram, the active enantiomer of citalopram, is indicated for treating major depressive episodes as are paroxetine hydrochloride, mirtazapine and duloxetine hydrochloride. However, not all duloxetine HCl preparations include depression in the market authorisations, with some being licensed solely for incontinence.

Fluoxetine hydrochloride is indicated for depression and typically major depression; use can be where depressive illness occurs with or without associated anxiety symptoms, and especially where sedation is not required.

Sertraline hydrochloride is indicated for major depressive episodes as well as the prevention of recurrence of major depressive episodes.