Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of medicine used to treat depression.
SSRIs can also be used to treat other conditions, such as:
Read more about the uses of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
How they work
SSRIs boost levels of a substance called serotonin in the brain. When serotonin is released it helps lift mood.
It is thought people with depression release only small amounts of serotonin. The SSRIs prevent the nerve cells in the brain absorbing serotonin.
It would be over simplistic to claim depression is primarily caused by serotonin levels. But a rise in serotonin levels can improve mood and make people more responsive to other types of treatment such as the talking therapy cognitive behavioral therapy.
Read more about how selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors work.
Side effects
Common side effects of SSRIs include:
- feeling sick
- low sex drive
- difficulties achieving orgasm during sex or masturbation
- in men, difficulties obtaining or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
- blurred vision
Most people find that side effects improve with time as their body gets used to the effects of the medication.
Some people experience suicidal thoughts and a desire to self-harm when they first start taking SSRIs. Those under 25 years of age seem particularly at risk.
Contact your GP, or go to hospital immediately, if you have thoughts of killing or harming yourself at any time while you are taking antidepressants.
Read more about the side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Dosage
Your GP will usually prescribe the lowest possible dose to reduce your risk of experiencing side effects. The dose can be gradually increased if it's not enough.
It can take two to four weeks for an SSRI to start improving your mood.
You should continue taking your SSRI even if it does not seem to work at first. Sometimes, the symptoms of a condition get worse before the SSRI can have an effect.
Depending on your previous medical history it may be recommended that you continue to take a SSRI for several months to prevent the condition returning.
Never suddenly stop taking a SSRI as this can lead to unpleasant withdrawal effects such as feeling anxious and dizziness. When it's time for your treatment to end your dosage will be gradually reduced.
Read more about the dosage of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Things to consider
SSRIs are not usually recommended in children and should only be given to pregnant women if it is thought benefits of treatment outweigh potential risks.
SSRIs may also not be suitable for people with certain health conditions such as glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) and kidney problems.
Read more about the cautions associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Some SSRIs can react unpredictably with other medicines, including over-the-counter painkillers and herbal remedies such as St John’s wort.
Always read the information leaflet that comes with your medication to be aware of any potential interactions.
It's usually recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking a SSRI. Alcohol can make SSRIs less effective and make side effects more severe.
Read more about possible interactions with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
