SSRIs

Question 1

What contraindications must be excluded before prescribing SSRIs?

Answer 1

• Suicidal risk

- Mania

Question 2

How would you explain the MOA of SSRIs to a patient?

Answer 2

• Antidepressants alter the balance of some chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters
• SSRI antidepressants affect a neurotransmitter called serotonin
• Imbalance of this and other neurotransmitters is thought to play a part in causing depression and other conditions

Question 3

How should SSRIs be taken?

Answer 3

• Once daily tablet
• May be gradually stopped 6 months after feeling better
• Effects in 4-8 weeks

Question 4

What monitoring is required for SSRIs?

Answer 4

None - but may want to call patient in the first 2 weeks to see how they’re getting on with the medication

Question 5

What are the important side effects of SSRIs that patients should be made aware of?

Answer 5

• May increase suicidal ideation in younger patients
• GI (diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting)
• Appetite and weight change
• Headaches
• Drowsiness (can take at night)
• Anxiety for 2 weeks
• Withdrawal if stopped abruptly (mood changes, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, sweating, GI symptoms, paraesthesia)