Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Therapeutic Actions
The SSRIs act as antidepressants by inhibiting CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin with little or no effect on norepinephrine; they are also thought to antagonize muscarinic, histaminergic, and alpha1-adrenergic receptors. The increase in serotonin levels at neuroreceptors is thought to act as a stimulant, counteracting depression and increasing motivation.
Indications
Treatment of depression; most effective in patients with major depressive disorder
Treatment of OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, PMDD
Unlabeled uses: Treatment of bulimia
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to any SSRI; pregnancy.
Use cautiously with impaired hepatic or renal function, diabetes mellitus, lactation.
Adverse Effects
CNS: Headache, nervousness, insomnia, drowsiness, anxiety, tremor, dizziness, light-headedness, agitation, sedation, abnormal gait, seizures
CV: Hot flashes, palpitations
Dermatologic: Sweating, rash, pruritus, acne, alopecia, contact dermatitis
GI: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, anorexia, dyspepsia, constipation, taste changes, flatulence, gastroenteritis, dysphagia, gingivitis
GU: Painful menstruation, sexual dysfunction, frequency, cystitis, impotence, urgency, vaginitis
Respiratory: URIs, pharyngitis, cough, dyspnea, bronchitis, rhinitis
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