SSRI: What They Are, How They Work, and Practical Tips
If your doctor mentioned an SSRI and you want plain answers, this page helps. SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors — a family of antidepressants used for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and some pain conditions. They raise serotonin in the brain by blocking its reabsorption, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety over weeks.
Common SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), and paroxetine (Paxil). Each drug acts similarly but differs in side effects, how fast they start, and drug interactions. For example, sertraline is often chosen for anxiety, while fluoxetine stays in the body longer and may be preferred in patients who forget doses.
What to expect when starting an SSRI
Most people need 4–8 weeks to notice real benefits. Early side effects — nausea, headache, sleep changes, or mild dizziness — often fade after a couple of weeks. Watch for increased restlessness or thoughts of self-harm, especially in young adults; call your doctor right away if that appears. Never stop an SSRI abruptly; tapering off slowly prevents withdrawal symptoms like flu-like feelings, insomnia, or mood swings.
Side effects, interactions, and safety
Common side effects include sexual dysfunction, weight changes, and sleep disturbances. SSRIs can interact with other drugs that raise serotonin — like triptans, tramadol, or certain herbal supplements — and cause serotonin syndrome. Mixing SSRIs with blood thinners or NSAIDs can raise bleeding risk. Tell your prescriber about all meds and supplements you take and get routine follow-ups the first few months.
If you have heart problems, some SSRIs (notably citalopram) can affect heart rhythm at high doses. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Discuss risks and benefits; sometimes staying on treatment is safer than stopping. Also, older adults may need lower doses and more monitoring for dizziness and falls.
Looking to save on prescriptions? Buying medicines in Mexico can be cheaper, but safety matters. Use licensed pharmacies, check expiration dates, and prefer medicines with clear labeling and batch numbers. Avoid unregulated online sellers offering prescription drugs without a script. When in doubt, ask the pharmacy for a pharmacist consultation and keep your original prescription.
Alternatives and complements to SSRIs include therapy (CBT), exercise, sleep hygiene, and certain supplements — but don’t mix supplements like St. John's wort with SSRIs. If an SSRI doesn't work or causes too many side effects, doctors may switch to another SSRI, try an SNRI, or add psychotherapy or augmentation drugs.
If you want a quick checklist: 1) Know the SSRI name and dose, 2) Expect 4–8 weeks for effect, 3) Watch for side effects and serotonin risks, 4) Don't stop suddenly, 5) Buy only from trusted pharmacies. Talk openly with your prescriber — clear, simple info helps you get the right treatment.
Common questions — Can you drive on SSRIs? Most people can, but watch for drowsiness when starting or changing dose. How long to stay on them? Many stay 6–12 months after recovery for a first episode; longer if recurrent. Insurance and cost: generic SSRIs are cheap. If cost is an issue, ask your doctor for a generic or check trusted Mexican pharmacies for lower prices. Keep records of your doses.
