What are the most important things I should know about SSRIs?
How SSRIs Work
The function of SSRIs is actually described in its nameselective serotoninreuptake inhibition.
Serotonin is a naturally occurring substance in the body known as a neurotransmitter.
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While serotonin is linked with feelings of happiness, low levels are connected tomood disorderslike depression.
Increasing serotonin in the brain can help regulate anxiety, improve mood, and promotea greater sense of well-being.
The table below lists the FDA-approved uses for individual SSRIs.
As you might see, not every SSRI is FDA-approved to treat every mood-related disorder.
Off-Label Uses for SSRIs
Doctors may prescribe SSRIs off-label to treat a broad range of other conditions.
Among them areeating disorders,fibromyalgia,migraine headaches,and premature ejaculation.
Prescribing a drug off-label can mean prescribing it for:
Off-label use does not imply illegal use.
In fact, the practice is legal and quite common.
According to one 2023 study, between 21% and 32.3% of prescriptions are written for off-label use.
Pregnancy
Hundreds of studies have looked at SSRI exposure and birth defects.
With the exception of Paxil,most SSRIs are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy.
But they are not without risk.
Remember to always discuss your specific situation thoroughly with your care provider before discontinuing any medication.
Breastfeeding
It’s possible that SSRIs can be passed to your baby through your breastmilk.
Zoloft and Paxil have been widely studied and are considered relatively safe for use during breastfeeding.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Side Effects of SSRI Medications
SSRIs are considered the most effectiveantidepressants with the fewest side effects.
The majority of people who take them, however, do experience at least one side effect.
Most of them are minor and usually go away as your body gets used to the medication.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these side effects, let them know.
They may be able to suggest ways to lessen the effects or adjust your dose as needed.
Serotonin Syndrome
SSRIs aren’t the only medications that increase serotonin levels in your body.
Certain pain and migraine medications, and herbal supplements such asSt.
John’s wort, can also increase serotonin levels.
You should also use caution when increasing doses of an SSRI.
Discontinuation Syndrome
SSRIs work by altering neurotransmitter levels.
Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that attach to neurons throughout the body and influence their activity.
Neurons eventually adapt to the new level of neurotransmitters.
Paroxetine is linked with the highest incidence of discontinuation syndrome, whereas fluoxetine is linked with the lowest.
In general, lower doses of SSRIs are associated with fewer occurrences of discontinuation syndrome.
Treatment for discontinuation syndrome depends on your individual symptoms, which SSRI you were taking, and your dosage.
Discontinuation syndrome is not life-threatening and symptoms should subside within a few weeks.
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