SSRI antidepressants: what they are and what they are for

SSRI antidepressants are drugs based on molecules that belong to the class of serotonin inhibitors. Let's find out what's important to know about it.

When we speak of ssri antidepressants or more commonly of ssri drugs, we mean that series of drugs capable of modulating the uptake of serotonin . There are six main molecules on the market that perform this function and which are fluoxetine, fluvozamine, escitalopram, citalopra, sertraline and paroxetine. Their fundamental role is to make more serotonin available in the body , thus changing the mood and improving any problems.

How ssri drugs work

SSRI drugs are thought to have, in some ways, a similar function to that of the more common tricyclic antidepressants . Compared to these it is said that they have a higher therapeutic index.

Typically, these medicines, also known as serotonergic drugs, tend to work within 15 or 20 minutes of taking them. Unlike the above drugs , however, these require both a medical prescription and a control by the doctor who decides to prescribe them.

For a correct intake it is in fact important to continuously monitor any side effects and how they interfere with the person's problems.

Ssri and side effects

Any drug, including ssri antidepressants, can have significant side effects.
Like any serotonin inhibitor, each of these drugs can therefore cause damage to the body.

In addition to serotonin poisoning which is the most extreme of the side effects, there are also other effects that can occur in a more or less important way and which are:

– Increased sweating
– Headache
– Tachycardia
– Tremors
– Involuntary muscle spasms
– Chills
– Dilation of the pupils
– Bowel sounds
– Accentuated reflections
– Fever
– Hypertension
– Insomnia
– Agitation
– Diarrhea

If even one of these symptoms occurs (even if mildly) it is very important to contact your doctor in order to evaluate a change in therapy or its possible suspension.

For some subjects, in fact, it may be necessary to undertake a therapy of a different type and therefore based on drugs without serotonergic activity. Drugs which, as such, will also be more suitable for those who can't stand those whose action is based on serotonin.

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