Neurological (SSRIs)

Question 1

Examples of drug (SSRIs)

Answer 1

• Citalopram
• Fluoxetine
• Paroxetine
• Escitalopram
• Sertraline

Question 2

Mechanism of action (SSRIs)

Answer 2

• Inhibition of reuptake of serotonin at the serotonin reuptake pump of the synaptic cleft (in the central nervous system)
• Increases serotonin stimulation of somatodendritic 5-HT1A and terminal autoreceptors

Question 3

Indications (SSRIs)

Answer 3

• Depression
• Bulimia
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Question 4

Side effects (SSRIs)

Answer 4

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Decreased libido
• Seizures (rare)
• Dyskinesia (rare)

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (SSRIs)

Answer 5

• SSRIs bind with less affinity to histamine, acetylcholine, and norepinephrine receptors than tricyclic antidepressant drugs. This leads to fewer side effects.
• Less dangerous in overdose than tricyclic antidepressant drugs.

Question 6

Patient information (SSRIs)

Answer 6

• Be wary with alcohol - toxicity possible
• Improvement in depressive symptoms may take several weeks to occur.
• Abrupt discontinuation from SSRIs may cause withdrawal symptoms (fatigue, tremor, sweating)