ANTIDEPRESSANTS #4

In this post, we would be looking further into the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) group.

MOA: SSRIs bind to the pre-synaptic nerve ending and block the reuptake of serotonin. Increasing level of serotonin in the synaptic cleft enhance neuronal activities via continuous binding of that particular neurotransmitters to post-synaptic receptors.

ADR:

• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Male sexual dysfunction
• Suicidal approaches, especially in teenagers
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and blurry vision
• Withdrawal symptoms such as tremors and anxieties

EX:

• Citalopram            (Cipram*)
• Fluoxetine             (Prozac*) 
• Fluvoxamine          (Luvox*)
• Paroxetine              (Paxil*)
• Sertraline                (Zoloft*)

TU:

• Depression                                 (Flouxetine)
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (Fluvoxamine)
• Panic disorder
• Anxiety

SP:

• Cardiac disease
• Diabetics
• Patients with unstable epilepsy
• Hepatic and renal impairment