1. Medications as you rightly mentioned are variable with different patients depending of nature of depressive disorder. Moreover, potency also is something thats variable as there are several forms of clinical depression.
Usually the first choice are SSRI group of drugs, all of which are more or less equally potent. Choice varies as per patient profile.
Next line most commonly are SDRI like Venlafaxine. Again, suitability is variable and must not be taken without consultation.
Alternative medications are aplenty and potency is variable and undefined.
2. Very varied. Yet, upon consultation I can give a clearer idea on what would work best.
Next Steps
Advise patient to consult a specialist over practo or in person for further advice. Clinical depression is one of the most easily managed psychiatric problems and no one should have to suffer from it indefinitely.
Health Tips
Kindly note that none of the above medications are available without prescription and if availed then taking without consultation can be very dangerous.