Hero # SSRIs for Depression Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are a common class of antidepressants used to treat depression and other mental health conditions.

Common examples FDA’s consumer list includes citalopram, escitalopram, paroxetine, fluoxetine, vortioxetine, vilazodone, and sertraline in the SSRI group.

Potential benefits SSRIs are often used because they are widely familiar to prescribers and may help with depression symptoms, anxiety-related symptoms, or both, depending on the person and medication.

Common side effects FDA lists nausea, tremor, nervousness, problems sleeping, sexual problems, sweating, agitation, and feeling tired as common SSRI side effects.

Less common but serious risks FDA lists seizures, abnormal bleeding or bruising, and withdrawal symptoms as less common but serious risks and advises patients to ask providers about serotonin syndrome.

Warnings and cautions SSRIs should not be taken with MAOIs, and some have additional interaction warnings. FDA also notes pregnancy-related risk discussions and caution in people with narrow-angle glaucoma.

Questions to ask a prescriber - Which SSRI are you recommending and why? - How will we monitor side effects or sexual side effects? - What should I know about stopping or switching? - Could any of my other medicines or supplements interact with this?

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