Drug List #11: Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs)

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering brand and generic names, drug classifications, clinical indications, mechanism notes, and patient counseling points for SSRIs and SNRIs.

SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor)

The most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants; impacts serotonin levels and reduces depression symptoms by increasing serotonin in the brain.

SNRI (Serotonin-norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor)

An antidepressant class that impacts levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine by preventing them from being removed from circulation, making more available to the brain.

Serotonin

The "feel-good" hormone that helps regulate mood in the brain.

Norepinephrine

Also known as noradrenaline; a hormone that provides a rush of excitement like adrenaline and is continually released throughout the day to help maintain alertness.

Pristiq

Generic name: Desvenlafaxine; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SNRI; Indication for use: Treat depression.

Cymbalta

Generic name: Duloxetine; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SNRI; Indication for use: Treat depression & nerve pain.

Effexor

Generic name: Venlafaxine; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SNRI; Indication for use: Treat depression & nerve pain.

Lexapro

Generic name: Escitalopram; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SSRI; Indication for use: Treat depression & anxiety disorders.

Celexa

Generic name: Citalopram; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SSRI; Indication for use: Treat depression.

Paxil

Generic name: Paroxetine; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SSRI; Indication for use: Treat depression, anxiety disorders, & OCD.

Zoloft

Generic name: Sertraline; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SSRI; Indication for use: Treat depression, OCD, PTSD, & panic disorders.

Prozac

Generic name: Fluoxetine; Classification: CNS-Antidepressant-SSRI; Indication for use: Treat depression, OCD, bulimia nervosa, & panic disorder.

Antidepressant Drug Info/Points

General patient counseling points: avoid alcohol, do not discontinue therapy abruptly, report any changes in behavior (suicidal thoughts), and be aware that it may cause drowsiness/dizziness.