SSRIs and SNRIs
Start with the big picture
SSRIs inhibit the serotonin transporter (SERT), increasing synaptic serotonin, while SNRIs block SERT and the norepinephrine transporter (NET), increasing serotonin and, depending on the drug and dose, norepinephrine. Both classes are used for major depressive disorder and several anxiety-related conditions; SNRIs also have uses in selected pain and other conditions. Symptom improvement takes time, and both classes can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, sleep changes, and sexual dysfunction. Important safety considerations include serotonin syndrome with interacting agents, discontinuation symptoms after stopping certain drugs, and special risks involving blood pressure, sodium, cardiac risk, pregnancy, or liver function. Drug-specific pharmacokinetics and interactions help guide safer prescribing and monitoring.
What you'll learn
- Compare SSRI and SNRI mechanisms through their effects on SERT and NET.
- Identify major clinical indications for each antidepressant class.
- Recognize common adverse effects and class-specific safety concerns.
- Describe key interaction, discontinuation, and patient-population precautions.
- Relate selected drug properties to monitoring and prescribing considerations.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
