Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Question 1

Common Facts

Answer 1

Commonly used to treat: Depression, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), panic disorder
Common auxiliary labels: may cause dizziness/drowsiness; avoid alcohol
Common doses: often dosed once daily

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Serotonin (5-HT) involved in improved mood, regulation of sleep-wake cycle, pain perception
Block reuptake of 5-HT (serotonin)
Allows 5-HT to remain in synaptic cleft longer which increases opportunity for receptor binding

Question 3

Notes

Answer 3

Can take 2-4 weeks for patients to see effects

Question 4

Adverse Reactions

Answer 4

Serotonin Syndrome- caused by increased levels of serotonin
Life threatening
Symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, increased body temperature, rapid changes in blood pressure

Question 5

Celexa

Answer 5

Generic name: citalopram

Tablets: 20mg, 40mg

Question 6

Cipralex

Answer 6

Generic name: escitalopram

Tablets: 10mg, 20mg

Question 7

Luvox

Answer 7

Generic name: fluvoxamine

Tablets: 50mg, 100mg

Question 8

Paxil

Answer 8

Generic name: paroxetine
Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 30mg
CR tablets: 12.5mg, 25mg
Auxiliary labels for CR tablets: swallow whole; do not crush or chew

Question 9

Prozac

Answer 9

Generic name: fluoxetine

Capsules: 10mg, 20mg