Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs, are used to treat depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, medical researchers aren't certain how they actually work. Neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, may affect behavior and mood. SSRIs affect the neurotransmitters by preventing them from being reabsorbed into brain nerve cells.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is marketed under the names Prozac, Prozac Weekly, Rapiflux, Selfemra and Sarafem. Prozac was the first SSRI introduced in the United States; it was introduced in 1987. Fluoxetine can treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and bulimia nervosa. Side effects may include restlessness, chills, anxiety, confusion, diarrhea, increased hunger and thirst, mood changes and lethargy. Withdrawal symptoms may include insomnia, paranoia, dizziness, euphoria and sweating.
Citalopram
Citalopram is sold as Celexa. It may not begin to seriously alter mood and depression for up to four weeks. Side effects may include loss of emotion, memory loss, changes in menstruation, difficulty breathing, decreased sex drive, anxiety, lethargy, nose bleeds, weight gain, seizures, shakiness, stomach pain, mental confusion, constipation, drooling, swelling, fatigue and hallucinations, among others. Taking too much of the medication can cause convulsions, dizziness, pain, vomiting, weakness and coma.
Escitalopram
Lexapro (escitalopram) may be prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder as well as depression. It is available as a tablet or liquid. Common side effects, which may vanish a short time after starting the medication, include diarrhea, lowered libido, insomnia, stomach pain, gas and heartburn. Side effects that are rare but require medical attention include weakness, nausea, cramps, less urination, confusion, convulsions and coma.
Paroxetine
Paxil, Pexeva and Paxil CR are the brand names of paroxetine. Along with depression, paroxetine also may be prescribed for OCD, social phobia and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is available in pill or liquid form. Side effects may include agitation, sensitivity to light, speaking difficulties, blurry vision and depression.
Sertraline
Sertraline is the generic name of Zoloft. It may be prescribed for anxiety disorders as well as depression. It is available as a liquid, capsule or tablet. Paroxetine may cause such side effects as a rash, restlessness, skin spotting, tenderness in the breast, aggression, chills, speaking difficulties, dry skin and blindness.
Olanzapine and Fluoxetine
Symbyax is a combination of olanzapine and fluoxetine. The medication is an SSRI antidepressant and an antipsychotic. It is of particular use in treating bipolar disorder depression. It is available as a capsule. Side effects may include delusions, changes of voice, trembling, weight gain, fever, dementia and blurry vision. Such side effects as difficulty speaking, speech pattern changes and seizures require emergency medical attention.
