Are antidepressants over the counter?

Yes and no: Antidepressants are only available by prescription. However, some folks take over-the-counter 5-htp or st. John's wort, which boost serotonin like the prescription ssri family [fluoxetine/prozac, lexapro, (escitalopram) citalopram for example].

No: Prescription antidepressants all cary enough risk and need monitoring, so they all still require a prescription. If you are depressed enough to need an antidepressant, see a physician. If you can not afford a regular doctor, look into a community health clinic near you - they may have a sliding scale fee. There are generic antidepressants, so they are less expensive now as well.

No: Safe and effective preparations used to treat depression are all available only on a prescription basis. Over the counter treatments do not have the body of research to back up their efficacy. If your mood has deteriorated enough to need treatment, you owe it to yourself to be evaluated by a physician and treated if needed with a prescription medication.