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Treatment Options

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Depression is characterized by low levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain. Neurotransmitters are released from the ends of nerve cells (presynaptic cells), cross the space between nerves (the synaptic cleft), connect with specific sites (receptors) on other nerves to convey a message, and then reabsorb into the cells to be used again. Generally, antidepressants increase the action of one or more neurotransmitters by blocking their reuptake (reabsorption). In general, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) block the reuptake of serotonin. Because they affect mainly a single neurotransmitter, SSRIs are more selective with fewer side effects than antidepressants that work on more than one neurotransmitter. The SSRIs are currently the most commonly prescribed antidepressants because of their effectiveness and decreased amount of side effects.

Serotonin Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase the amount of serotonin in synapses by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin into the cells. .

Drugs in the class

Citalopram Oral Solution ( Celexa Solution )

Citalopram Tablets ( Celexa )

Escitalopram Oral Suspension ( Lexapro Oral Suspension )

Fluoxetine Oral Solution (Depression/Mood Disorders) ( Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Oral Solution (Depression/Mood Disorders), Prozac Oral Solution )

Fluoxetine Tablets (Depression/Mood Disorders) ( Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Tablets (Depression/Mood Disorders) )

Fluvoxamine Extended-Release Capsules ( Fluvoxamine Maleate Extended-Release Capsules, Luvox CR Extended-Release Capsules )

Paroxetine Hydrochloride Tablets ( Paxil Tablets )

Paroxetine Oral Suspension ( Paroxetine Hydrochloride Oral Suspension, Paxil Suspension )

Sertraline Oral Solution ( Zoloft Oral Solution )

Sertraline Tablets ( Zoloft )

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.