Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Class of antidepressants}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2025}} | |||
{{Infobox drug class | |||
| name = Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) | |||
| image = Vincent Willem van Gogh 002.jpg | |||
| caption = SSRIs can help people who are [[depression (mental illness)|depressed]], like this "[[sadness|sorrowing]] old man" painted by [[Vincent van Gogh]] | |||
| width = 250px | |||
| class = [[Antidepressants]] | |||
| atc_prefix = N06AB | |||
| mode_of_action = [[Serotonin reuptake inhibitor]] | |||
| biological_target = [[Serotonin transporter]] (SERT) | |||
| used_for = [[Major depressive disorder]], [[anxiety disorders]], [[obsessive-compulsive disorder]], [[PTSD]], [[eating disorders]] | |||
| risks = [[Serotonin syndrome]], [[sexual dysfunction]], [[withdrawal symptoms]] | |||
| legal_status = Prescription-only in most countries | |||
| related_drugs = [[Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors]] (SNRIs), [[Tricyclic antidepressants]] (TCAs), [[Monoamine oxidase inhibitors]] (MAOIs) | |||
}} | |||
SSRIs are | '''Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors''' ('''SSRIs''') are a class of [[pharmacological]] agents primarily used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other psychological conditions. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake, thereby improving mood and emotional stability. | ||
SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants worldwide due to their efficacy, tolerability, and relatively mild side-effect profile. Popular SSRIs include: | |||
SSRIs are | * [[Fluoxetine]] (Prozac) | ||
* [[Sertraline]] (Zoloft) | |||
* [[Paroxetine]] (Paxil) | |||
* [[Citalopram]] (Celexa) | |||
* [[Escitalopram]] (Lexapro) | |||
* [[Fluvoxamine]] (Luvox) | |||
== Mechanism of Action == | |||
SSRIs function by blocking the serotonin transporter (SERT), which prevents serotonin reuptake at synapses. This increases serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing neurotransmission in the serotonergic system, which is crucial for mood regulation, emotion, and cognition. | |||
Unlike tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), SSRIs specifically target serotonin without significantly affecting norepinephrine or dopamine, which contributes to their lower side effect profile. | |||
== | == Therapeutic Uses == | ||
SSRIs are prescribed for several psychiatric and psychological conditions, including: | |||
== | === 1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) === | ||
SSRIs are the first-line pharmacological treatment for moderate to severe depression. They are recommended when psychotherapy alone is insufficient. Studies indicate that SSRIs can significantly reduce depressive symptoms and prevent relapse. | |||
=== 2. Anxiety Disorders === | |||
SSRIs are widely used for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder (PD). Their efficacy in reducing excessive worry and fear makes them a primary treatment option. | |||
* | === 3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) === | ||
* | SSRIs, particularly fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, are FDA-approved for OCD treatment. Higher doses may be required for obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and combination with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) improves outcomes. | ||
* | |||
=== 4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) === | |||
Fluoxetine and paroxetine are the only FDA-approved SSRIs for PTSD. They are used to reduce intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and hyperarousal symptoms. | |||
=== 5. Eating Disorders === | |||
SSRIs, particularly fluoxetine, are prescribed for bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. They help reduce compulsive eating behaviors and improve impulse control. | |||
=== 6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) === | |||
Sertraline and fluoxetine are commonly prescribed for PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by mood swings, irritability, and depression. | |||
== Side Effects == | |||
While SSRIs are generally well-tolerated, they can cause side effects, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. Common side effects include: | |||
* Gastrointestinal issues – nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth | |||
* Neurological symptoms – headache, dizziness, insomnia, drowsiness | |||
* Sexual dysfunction – reduced libido, anorgasmia, erectile dysfunction | |||
* Weight changes – slight weight gain or loss | |||
* Emotional blunting – reduced emotional responsiveness | |||
Most side effects subside over time, but persistent or severe reactions should be reported to a healthcare provider. | |||
== Discontinuation Syndrome == | |||
Stopping SSRIs abruptly can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms known as SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome. Symptoms include: | |||
* Flu-like symptoms | |||
* Dizziness, nausea | |||
* Sensory disturbances ("brain zaps") | |||
* Anxiety, irritability | |||
* Insomnia | * Insomnia | ||
To prevent withdrawal effects, SSRIs should be tapered gradually under medical supervision. | |||
== Drug Interactions == | |||
SSRIs interact with multiple medications, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Patients should avoid: | |||
* Other antidepressants: | |||
* [[Monoamine oxidase inhibitors]] (MAOIs) | |||
* [[Tricyclic antidepressants]] (TCAs) | |||
* [[Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors]] (SNRIs) | |||
* Pain medications: | |||
* [[Tramadol]] | |||
* [[Meperidine]] (Demerol) | |||
* Other interactions: | |||
* [[St. John's Wort]] – Increases serotonin levels, leading to serotonin syndrome | |||
* [[MDMA]] (Ecstasy) – Can cause dangerous serotonin spikes | |||
* [[Dextromethorphan]] – Found in cough medicines, may trigger interactions | |||
== Special Considerations == | |||
=== Pregnancy and Breastfeeding === | |||
* Some SSRIs, such as fluoxetine and sertraline, are considered relatively safe during pregnancy. | |||
* However, paroxetine has been associated with congenital heart defects. | |||
* SSRIs can pass into breast milk, but are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. | |||
== | === Suicide Risk === | ||
SSRIs | * In young adults (under 25), SSRIs may increase suicidal thoughts during the first few weeks of treatment. | ||
* Close monitoring is recommended during initial treatment and dosage adjustments. | |||
== Comparison with Other Antidepressants == | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
|+ Comparison of SSRIs with Other Antidepressants | |||
! Class !! Example Drugs !! Mechanism of Action !! Side Effect Profile !! Special Considerations | |||
|- | |||
| SSRIs || Fluoxetine, Sertraline || Selective serotonin reuptake inhibition || Mild, well-tolerated || First-line for depression and anxiety | |||
|- | |||
| SNRIs || Venlafaxine, Duloxetine || Inhibits serotonin & norepinephrine reuptake || Increased blood pressure || Used in depression & chronic pain | |||
|- | |||
| TCAs || Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline || Blocks serotonin & norepinephrine reuptake || More sedation, weight gain || Effective but more side effects | |||
|- | |||
| MAOIs || Phenelzine, Selegiline || Blocks monoamine oxidase (MAO) || Dietary restrictions (tyramine) || Used for treatment-resistant depression | |||
|} | |||
== | == See Also == | ||
* [[Serotonin]] | * [[Serotonin]] | ||
* [[Depression (mental illness) | * [[Depression (mental illness)]] | ||
* [[Anxiety disorder]] | * [[Anxiety disorder]] | ||
* [[Antidepressant]] | |||
== | == External Links == | ||
{{ | {{Medical resources | ||
| DiseasesDB = | |||
| ICD10 = {{ICD10|N|06|A|b|11}} | |||
| MedlinePlus = | |||
| eMedicineSubj = psych | |||
| eMedicineTopic = selective-serotonin-reuptake-inhibitor | |||
| MeshID = D017367 | |||
}} | |||
{{Antidepressants}} | {{Antidepressants}} | ||
| Line 69: | Line 133: | ||
{{OCD pharmacotherapies}} | {{OCD pharmacotherapies}} | ||
{{Monoamine reuptake inhibitors}} | {{Monoamine reuptake inhibitors}} | ||
{{Sigma receptor modulators}} | {{Sigma receptor modulators}} {{stub}} | ||
[[Category:Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors]] | |||
[[Category:Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors | |||
[[Category:Sigma receptor ligands]] | [[Category:Sigma receptor ligands]] | ||
[[Category:Treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder]] | [[Category:Treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder]] | ||
[[Category:Treatment of depression]] | [[Category:Treatment of depression]] | ||
Latest revision as of 03:25, 20 March 2025
Class of antidepressants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of pharmacological agents primarily used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other psychological conditions. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake, thereby improving mood and emotional stability.
SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants worldwide due to their efficacy, tolerability, and relatively mild side-effect profile. Popular SSRIs include:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)
- Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
Mechanism of Action[edit]
SSRIs function by blocking the serotonin transporter (SERT), which prevents serotonin reuptake at synapses. This increases serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing neurotransmission in the serotonergic system, which is crucial for mood regulation, emotion, and cognition.
Unlike tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), SSRIs specifically target serotonin without significantly affecting norepinephrine or dopamine, which contributes to their lower side effect profile.
Therapeutic Uses[edit]
SSRIs are prescribed for several psychiatric and psychological conditions, including:
1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)[edit]
SSRIs are the first-line pharmacological treatment for moderate to severe depression. They are recommended when psychotherapy alone is insufficient. Studies indicate that SSRIs can significantly reduce depressive symptoms and prevent relapse.
2. Anxiety Disorders[edit]
SSRIs are widely used for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder (PD). Their efficacy in reducing excessive worry and fear makes them a primary treatment option.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)[edit]
SSRIs, particularly fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, are FDA-approved for OCD treatment. Higher doses may be required for obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and combination with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) improves outcomes.
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)[edit]
Fluoxetine and paroxetine are the only FDA-approved SSRIs for PTSD. They are used to reduce intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and hyperarousal symptoms.
5. Eating Disorders[edit]
SSRIs, particularly fluoxetine, are prescribed for bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. They help reduce compulsive eating behaviors and improve impulse control.
6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)[edit]
Sertraline and fluoxetine are commonly prescribed for PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by mood swings, irritability, and depression.
Side Effects[edit]
While SSRIs are generally well-tolerated, they can cause side effects, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. Common side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal issues – nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth
- Neurological symptoms – headache, dizziness, insomnia, drowsiness
- Sexual dysfunction – reduced libido, anorgasmia, erectile dysfunction
- Weight changes – slight weight gain or loss
- Emotional blunting – reduced emotional responsiveness
Most side effects subside over time, but persistent or severe reactions should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Discontinuation Syndrome[edit]
Stopping SSRIs abruptly can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms known as SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome. Symptoms include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Dizziness, nausea
- Sensory disturbances ("brain zaps")
- Anxiety, irritability
- Insomnia
To prevent withdrawal effects, SSRIs should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.
Drug Interactions[edit]
SSRIs interact with multiple medications, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Patients should avoid:
- Other antidepressants:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Pain medications:
- Tramadol
- Meperidine (Demerol)
- Other interactions:
- St. John's Wort – Increases serotonin levels, leading to serotonin syndrome
- MDMA (Ecstasy) – Can cause dangerous serotonin spikes
- Dextromethorphan – Found in cough medicines, may trigger interactions
Special Considerations[edit]
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding[edit]
- Some SSRIs, such as fluoxetine and sertraline, are considered relatively safe during pregnancy.
- However, paroxetine has been associated with congenital heart defects.
- SSRIs can pass into breast milk, but are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Suicide Risk[edit]
- In young adults (under 25), SSRIs may increase suicidal thoughts during the first few weeks of treatment.
- Close monitoring is recommended during initial treatment and dosage adjustments.
Comparison with Other Antidepressants[edit]
| Class | Example Drugs | Mechanism of Action | Side Effect Profile | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRIs | Fluoxetine, Sertraline | Selective serotonin reuptake inhibition | Mild, well-tolerated | First-line for depression and anxiety |
| SNRIs | Venlafaxine, Duloxetine | Inhibits serotonin & norepinephrine reuptake | Increased blood pressure | Used in depression & chronic pain |
| TCAs | Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline | Blocks serotonin & norepinephrine reuptake | More sedation, weight gain | Effective but more side effects |
| MAOIs | Phenelzine, Selegiline | Blocks monoamine oxidase (MAO) | Dietary restrictions (tyramine) | Used for treatment-resistant depression |
See Also[edit]
External Links[edit]
The following are antidepressant subclasses and drugs
MAO Inhibitors Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine
SNRIs Duloxetine, Levomilnacipran, Venlafaxine
SSRIs Citalopram, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Vilazodone, Vortioxetine
Tricyclics Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Clomipramine, Desipramine, Doxepin, Imipramine, Nortriptyline, Protriptyline, Trimipramine
Miscellaneous Bupropion, Flibanserin, Mirtazapine, Nefazodone, Trazodone
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