SSRI stands for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. SSRI antidepressants are a type of antidepressant that have been shown to increase levels of serotonin within the brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is often referred to as the “feel good hormone”. It carries messages between brain cells and contributes to well-being, good mood, appetite, as well as helping to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle and internal clock. Historically, it was thought that depression was caused by low levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, although experts now do not think this is the case.

SSRIs increase levels of serotonin in the brain by preventing the reuptake of serotonin by nerves. All SSRI antidepressants have this effect.

Antidepressants relieve the symptoms of depression. SSRIs are one type of antidepressant. Other types include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and the atypical antidepressants

What are SSRI antidepressants used for?

SSRI antidepressants help to relieve symptoms of depression such as low mood, irritability, feelings of worthlessness, restlessness, anxiety, and difficulty in sleeping.

They are one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants because they are effective at improving mood with fewer or less severe side effects compared to some other antidepressants.

In addition to depression, SSRIs may also be used to treat a range of other conditions, for example: