Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressant drugs that block serotonin transporters, slowing serotonin reuptake into neurons. They are prescribed chiefly for depression and several anxiety-related disorders.

Serotonin transporter: A membrane protein that returns serotonin from the synaptic space to the presynaptic neuron. SSRIs produce their defining pharmacological effect by inhibiting this transporter.
Major depressive disorder: A mood disorder characterized by persistent depressed mood or loss of interest and associated symptoms. SSRIs are commonly prescribed as one medication option for this disorder.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor: An antidepressant class that inhibits the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. SNRIs share serotonin reuptake blockade but also target norepinephrine transporters.
Fluoxetine: An SSRI antidepressant marketed under the brand name Prozac. Fluoxetine became one of the best-known SSRIs and has a relatively long elimination half-life.
Serotonin: A neurotransmitter and signaling molecule involved in mood, appetite, sleep, and other functions. Blocking its reuptake changes serotonin signaling without simply creating more serotonin.
Generalized anxiety disorder: An anxiety disorder marked by persistent, excessive worry across multiple areas of life. Several SSRIs are established medication treatments for generalized anxiety disorder.
Tricyclic antidepressant: An older antidepressant class that affects serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake along with several other receptors. Tricyclics have broader receptor effects and often greater toxicity in overdose than SSRIs.
Sertraline: An SSRI antidepressant marketed under the brand name Zoloft. Sertraline is widely prescribed and is used for depression and several anxiety-related disorders.
Synaptic transmission: Communication between cells through chemical or electrical signals across synapses. SSRI action alters the duration and availability of a chemical signal at synapses.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder: A disorder involving intrusive obsessions and repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce distress. SSRIs are commonly used to reduce obsessive-compulsive symptoms, often at higher doses than for depression.

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