In this This Is Why pharmacology review, Dr. Busti walks through the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)—how they became first-line for major depressive disorder and a wide range of anxiety-related disorders, and where their real-world pitfalls live.

‍

We compare the core agents—citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline—covering indications, mechanism, and clinical nuances that matter at the bedside. You’ll learn how dose, half-life, metabolism, and side-effect patterns influence patient-specific choices, and what to monitor for safety and success.

‍

This episode includes practical guidance on:
- Managing sexual dysfunction, QT risk, and SIADH
- Recognizing CYP2D6 interactions
- Understanding fluoxetine’s long half-life
- Applying MAOI washout rules to avoid serotonin syndrome
- Starting low and titrating slow for anxiety

‍

If you want to go beyond memorization and understand the why behind the what, this episode connects the science, safety, and strategy of SSRI use.

‍

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to SSRIs: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
00:23 History & Development: From MAOIs and TCAs to Modern SSRIs
00:56 SSRIs First-Line Use in MDD & Anxiety: Why SSRIs Became the Standard of Care
02:24 SSRI Drug Lineup Overview: Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Citalopram, Escitalopram
03:19 Indications Beyond Depression: GAD, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, PMDD & More
05:04 Mechanism of Action: Serotonin Transporter Blockade & CNS Pathways
09:04 Clinical Pharmacology: Receptor Activity, Half-Life, Active Metabolites & CYP Pathways
13:28 SSRI Targeted Neurotransmitter
21:48 SSRI Metabolic Pathways
23:40 Side Effects: GI, Sexual Dysfunction, Insomnia, Activation, Hyponatremia
24:32 Monitoring and Counseling Checklist for SSRI Antidepressants

‍
#SSRI #SSRIantidepressants #pharmacology #PsychiatryPharmacology #medicaleducation
‍

Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this content.