Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Overview

• SSRIs: A class of antidepressants used to treat depression and anxiety.
• Function: Block or inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, increasing availability in the brain.
• Serotonin: Known as the feel-good neurotransmitter, helps improve mood.

Mnemonic Guide

• Sushi Rice: Represents SSRIs.

Common SSRI Drugs

• Citalopram
  • Mnemonic: "Citi" credit card.
• Escitalopram
• Sertraline
  • Mnemonic: "Certificate" on the wall.
• Paroxetine
  • Mnemonic: "Parrotfish".
• Fluoxetine
  • Mnemonic: "Flour" for frying sushi.

Clinical Uses

• Treat Depression
  • Symbolized by crying customer (breakup scene).
  • First-line treatment.
  • Increases serotonin, improving mood.
• Treat Anxiety
  • Man's anxiety during breakup scene.
  • General anxiety disorder, PTSD, panic disorders.

Side Effects & Adverse Reactions

• Sexual Dysfunction
  • Very common, over 50% experience this.
  • Symptoms: low libido, anorgasmia.
• Weight Gain
  • Encourage healthy diet and exercise.
• Serotonin Syndrome
  • Life-threatening.
  • Symptoms: tachycardia, hypertension, muscle rigidity, agitation, diarrhea.
  • Mnemonic: "Happy face" takeout bag.

Interaction Warnings

• Avoid MAOIs
  • Wait 14 days before switching.
  • Mnemonic: "Maui" for MAOI.
• Avoid St. John's Wort
  • Mnemonic: "Saint's Warthog" jersey.
• Avoid Grapefruit
  • Grapefruit interferes with drug metabolism.

Conclusion

• SSRIs are effective for treating depression and anxiety but have potential side effects.
• Be wary of serotonin syndrome and drug interactions.
• Remember:
  • Key drugs: Citalopram, Escitalopram, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine.
  • Side effects: Sexual dysfunction, weight gain.
  • Avoid: MAOIs, St. John's Wort, Grapefruit.

For further study, explore additional mnemonic videos and resources.