Paper I
2021 May (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Q33 marksShort Notes

Answer

Examples: Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Escitalopram, Citalopram

Mechanism of action

  • Selectively inhibit presynaptic reuptake of serotonin, increasing synaptic 5-HT availability
  • Delayed onset (2–4 weeks) correlating with downregulation of postsynaptic 5-HT receptors

Uses

  • Major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD

Adverse effects

  • GI disturbances, sexual dysfunction
  • Serotonin syndrome (with other serotonergic drugs)
  • Discontinuation syndrome
  • Much safer overdose profile than TCAs

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