SSRIs: What to Know About a Common Mental Health Drug

*If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, PLEASE call someone. Dialing 9-8-8 on any phone will put you in touch with a crisis counselor.*

If you’re depressed, anxious, have PTSD, severe phobias, or some other conditions, your doctor may prescribe you something to treat it. As a nurse with knowledge of these options, I believe that depression and anxiety should preferably be addressed by lifestyle changes when possible. However, that option, while a good one, may not be enough for some. In any case, the first pharmaceutical option tried is often an SSRI.

So, What’s an SSRI?

SSRI stands for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. That’s a complicated term, I know. Think of it like this: Serotonin is a chemical your body makes. It goes into your bloodstream, and is partly responsible for happiness, optimism, and satisfaction. You have neurons in your brain that make it, and receptors that re-absorb it (this is reuptake). If your body is a pool, you have an outlet filling the pool with water (serotonin). You have another system (your reuptake receptors) that starts to drain that water when it senses the pool is getting too full and about to overflow. This is important, as too much serotonin can lead to dangerous health conditions.

Sometimes, though, those receptors are re-absorbing serotonin before it reaches a normal level. Maybe they’re re-absorbing it too quickly. Maybe your neurons just don’t make that much of it in the first place. This can cause depression and anxiety disorders. In that case, an SSRI can slow down that re-absorption to increase serotonin levels in the body.

SSRIs are commonly prescribed. The five most common are Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil, Celexa, and Lexapro. While these drugs can provide many benefits for patients, they also come with some risks that should be taken into consideration before use.

How Treatment Works

Often, your doctor will start you on one of these options by prescribing a once-daily pill. It is general practice to start with the lowest possible dose, and adjust after re-evaluating. It is important to remember, these medications take time to reach an effective level in the body. Usually, improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks of beginning the medications. Also, it is important that you do not stop taking these medications suddenly. Your doctor will help with a gradual reduction of doses to transition you off these medications.

Benefits of SSRIs

As noted above, SSRI drugs work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. By increasing serotonin levels, SSRIs can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, including low mood, lack of energy, and negative thoughts.

Studies have shown that SSRIs are effective in treating various forms of depression, including major depressive disorder, persistent depression, and seasonal affective disorder. They have also been shown to be effective in treating various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Furthermore, SSRIs can also help improve sleep quality They are sometimes used to reduce pain caused by conditions like fibromyalgia. Also, doctors can use them to alleviate severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Risks of SSRIs

SSRIs can provide many benefits. Like any drug, they also come with some risks that should be taken into consideration. One of the most common side effects of SSRIs is sexual dysfunction, which can include a decrease in libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. Other common side effects of SSRIs can include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and weight gain.

In very rare cases, SSRIs can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This is particularly noticed in children, adolescents, and young adults. For this reason, physicians take great caution in prescribing SSRIs to young people. This risk is highest during the first few months of treatment, and patients are closely monitored for any signs of suicidal ideation.

Additionally, some studies have suggested that long-term use of SSRIs may increase the risk of bone fractures, particularly in older adults. Your doctor may order vitamin and mineral supplements to manage this risk.

Final Thoughts

SSRIs can be highly effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders. They can provide a range of benefits to patients. However, they come with risks that should be taken into consideration before use. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks of SSRIs with their healthcare provider before beginning treatment. People taking these drugs should be closely monitored for any side effects or changes in mood or behavior.

Listen, guys: if you are experiencing depression or anxiety, talk to a healthcare professional. If you are feeling like you want to hurt yourself, CALL SOMEONE. Medication is only one option. There are many other treatments and therapies that can manage these conditions. Talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness meditation are frequently effective. In fact, I use all of these options myself. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage the symptoms of depression and anxiety. You have the power to improve your overall health and well-being.

With Love, Greg