Paper I
2014 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Mention SSRI and its advantages.

Q73 marksShort Notes

Answer

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Escitalopram, Citalopram

Mechanism of action

  • Selectively inhibit presynaptic reuptake of serotonin, increasing synaptic 5-HT availability

Advantages (over older antidepressants like TCAs)

  • Better safety profile — much less cardiotoxic, safer in overdose
  • Fewer anticholinergic side effects (no significant dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention)
  • Fewer sedative and antihistaminic effects
  • No significant orthostatic hypotension
  • Better patient compliance due to more tolerable side-effect profile
  • Once-daily dosing, wider margin of safety

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