SSRI AND SNRIs depression mental.

 

• • SSRIs and SNRIs are first-line therapy for depression.

    SSRIs block serotonin reuptake into the presynaptic cleft; used for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – a form of anxiety where obsessive thoughts intrude daily consciousness and impair function – and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) – emotional and behavioral changes in the second half of a woman’s menstrual cycle, similar to PMS but PMDD is much more severe and life altering. SSRIs may also be used for anxiety and panic disorder. SNRIs block reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine.

    Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is primarily used for pain associated with depression.
  • • • Common SSRI side effects include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, headache, and diarrhea. Some patients experience sexual dysfunction. Side effects can subside over time. Effects are frequent reasons why patients stop taking these medications. Fluoxetine (Prozac) can cause weight loss and is sometimes used for eating disorders; this however should not be used simply as a weight loss agent.

        
        

        Antidepressants (SSRIs) have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and tendencies, especially in pediatric and adolescent patients. Patients should be monitored closely and should be offered counseling and psychotherapy in addition to medication.

        Patients taking SSRIs are at risk for serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal medication condition when too much serotonin is present, causing changes in cardiovascular function and even heart attack.

        Patients taking more than one antidepressant or St. John’s Wort – a herbal product taken for depression – are at a particularly high risk for serotonin syndrome.

        Patients experiencing a combination of racing heart rate, fever, high blood pressure, and headache, may be experiencing signs of serotonin syndrome, should seek medical attention immediately.