A class of antidepressants used primarily for the treatment of major depressive disorder and many of the anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder. Panic disorder, social phobia, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Clinical trials also have supported the use of SSRIs in the treatment of other mental disorders, including bulimia nervosa, and borderline personality disorder. The principal pharmacological effect of the SSRIs is to increase the amount of serotonin available in the synapse through inhibition of serotonin reuptake. The six SSRIs available in the united states are citalopram (celexa), fluoxetine (prozac), fluvoxamine (luvox), paroxetine (paxil), sertraline (zoloft), and escitalopram oxalate (lexapro). Also sometimes referred to as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs).
A chemical (or drug) that prevents serotonin being removed from the synapse, thereby increasing its presence and its mood-boosting effects.
A group of antidepressant drugs which inhibit the re-uptake of serotonin by brain cells. They are better tolerated and safer in overdose than other antidepressants Examples are; fluoxetine fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline and citalopram. There are various possible side-effects and some groups of patients who should not be treated with SSRIs. Particular caution must be exercised when prescribing for those under 18, in whom only paroxetine has been shown to be of any benefit and where there may be a small risk of these drugs provoking suicidal thoughts.
Any one of a class of drugs that interferes with serotonin transport, used in treating depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, and social phobias. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil).
A newer class of antidepressants designed to increase the brain’s serotonin levels.
A category of antidepressant medications functions by impeding the reuptake of serotonin by brain cells, leading to an elevation in the levels of this neurotransmitter within the brain.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressant medications utilized to address conditions such as depression, panic disorder, bulimia, premenstrual syndrome, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. SSRIs function by impeding the reabsorption of serotonin once it’s released in the brain, leading to heightened serotonin levels which contribute to improved mood. Well-known SSRIs encompass fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline. These medications are typically taken orally on a daily basis, although the positive effects may take up to three weeks to manifest. In comparison to other types of antidepressants, SSRIs generally yield fewer side effects, yet they might induce symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, restlessness, and anxiety. Abruptly discontinuing SSRIs can trigger withdrawal symptoms.