Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medications commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. They work by increasing the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood, emotion, and sleep, in the brain. Normally, after serotonin is released into the brain, it is reabsorbed by neurons. SSRIs block this reabsorption, allowing serotonin to remain active longer, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. They are generally considered effective with a favorable side effect profile, but it may take several weeks for benefits to be noticed.