SSRIs are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They work by selectively blocking the reuptake of serotonin by presynaptic neurons, increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft between neurons.
Some of the most popular selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
- Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
- Vilazodone (Viibryd)
- Fluoxetine and olanzapine (Symbyax)
- S-citalopram (S-Prilosec)
- Zimelidine (Zelmid)
Depression #
These medications are commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They are generally well-tolerated and have a lower risk of side effects compared to other classes of antidepressants. However, as with all medications, individual responses may vary, and it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage for an individual’s specific needs.
It’s important to note that not all SSRIs are available in every country and some may have different brand names. It’s also important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage for an individual’s specific needs.
Biochemistry #
SSRIs target the serotonin transporter (SERT), a protein responsible for the reuptake of serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. By inhibiting the function of SERT, SSRIs prevent the reuptake of serotonin and allow more serotonin to remain in the synaptic cleft, where it can continue to activate postsynaptic receptors and exert its effects.
Mechanism #
SSRIs inhibit SERT is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve binding to the transporter protein and blocking its ability to transport serotonin back into the presynaptic neuron. This results in an accumulation of serotonin in the synaptic cleft and prolonged activation of postsynaptic receptors.
Neural Changes #
Over time, the increased availability of serotonin in the brain can lead to changes in neural plasticity and gene expression, which are thought to underlie the therapeutic effects of SSRIs. However, it may take several weeks of treatment for these changes to occur and for the full therapeutic effects of the medication to be realized.