SSRI's
Selective Serotonin Reputake Inhibitors

SSRI’s are a newer class of drug that are more selective in their actions as they act by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin by certain nerve cells in the brain, therefore leaving more serotonin in the brain for longer, and ultimately improving mood. 

SSRI’s vary in their potency, so sometimes several different antidepressants will be trialled before a suitable one is found.

The letter CR or XR found on some individual medications indicate ‘extended release’ or ‘controlled release’ meaning that the medication is intended as a single dose, either per day or per week.
These medications may also be used to treat other conditions.

To read about others personal experiences with these antidepressants visit the Medications section of the depressioNet forums.  These accounts are personal and all experiences are different and should not be replaced by the advice of your Healthcare Professional.  

For access to pharamceutical information regarding the above medictions visit the PBS Website by clicking below

Side Effects

These types of antidepressant are less likely to interact adversely with other medications and are considered less dangerous in the event of overdose.

All SSRI’s have the same general make up but have different pharmacological characteristics depending on make, therefore side effects may differ from one SSRI to another.

You may experience the following side effects;

• Nausea (you may experience less nausea with a controlled release SSRI)
• Sexual Dysfunction
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nervousness
• Rash
• Agitation
• Restlessness
• Increased Sweating
• Weight Gain
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Avoid Paxil if pregnant as links have been found between Paxil and birth defects in the first trimester

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin Syndrome is a rare yet fatal illness which occurs when levels of serotonin in the brain are excessively high.  This can be a result of an interaction between SSRI's and MAOI's and St John’s Wort.  These antidepressants cannot be taken within 2 weeks of each other.  Inform your doctor if you are or have taken an MAOI.

Signs and Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome;

• Confusion
• Restlessness
• Hallucinations
• Extreme Agitation
• Fluctuations in Blood Pressure
• Increase in Heart Rate
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Fever
• Seizures
• Coma

Withdrawal

You may experience the following effects when coming off SSRI antidepressants;

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Lethargy
• Flu like Symptoms

Suicidal Feelings

Antidepressants have been linked to worsening suicidal emotions.  This is likely to occur at the beginning of a new treatment or as dosage is increased, however they can occur at any time during treatment.  It is important to monitor suicidal tendencies when beginning new treatment and to inform your Healthcare Professional.