Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) refer to medications used to treat depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, SSRIs are a popular form of antidepressants first marketed in the United States in 1987 with the drug fluoxetine. Specifically, SSRIs prevent your brain's nerve cells from absorbing serotonin, a brain chemical, back into the cells. This leads to an accumulation of serotonin in your brain that relieves your depression, as a lack of serotonin can lead to your depressive symptoms. Escitalopram, praroxetine and sertraline are SSRI medications.
Sertraline
Sertraline is a medication used to manage major depressive disorder. The National Library of Medicine says that signs of this disorder include at least four of the following symptoms: problems sleeping, appetite changes, low sex drive, lack of interest in activities, fatigue, slowness in thinking, difficulty concentrating or suicidal thoughts or attempts. In fact, sertraline can increase your chances of developing suicidal thinking and even actions.
Sertraline's side effects include dry mouth, pain, constipation, indigestion, diarrhea, tremors, dizziness and increased sweating (hyperhidrosis). It can also cause problems with ejaculation, drowsiness and agitation. The National Library of Medicine says that 50mg of setraline a day is indicated to treat depression.
Escitalopram
Escitalopram is another SSRI medication used to manage depression. The National Institutes of Health says that it can also treat generalized anxiety disorder, a condition in which you exhibit worry and fear daily for six months or greater.
Like sertraline, escitalopram can also increase your risk of suicide. Escitalopram's other side effects include heartburn, stomach pain, dizziness, nausea, a runny nose and sneezing. Its additional side effects include drowsiness, constipation, diarrhea and changes in your sex drive. In severe cases, escitalopram can cause muscle stiffness, confusion and a fast heartbeat.
Escitalopram is a liquid or tablet that is taken once a day as your physician prescribes.
Paroxetine
Paroxetine is an additional SSRI used to treat depression. Drugs.com says that it can also treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Paroxetine's common side effects include nervousness, weight changes, constipation, drowsiness and sleep problems. Paroxetine can also lead to nosebleeds, stiff muscles, a high fever, fainting, hallucinations and seizures.
Paroxetine is a controlled-release tablet that should be taken as your doctor indicates.
