Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, commonly known as SSRIs, are a type of medicine used to treat depression, anxiety, and other health conditions. They are in the news after the U.S. Health Secretary made misleading and unsupported claims about antidepressants.
SSRIs, when used as directed, are safe, effective, and an important part of many people’s treatment and management of depression. Misleading claims about SSRIs may discourage people from seeking mental health treatment and increase stigma. Use these talking points to answer your community members’ questions about SSRIs, how they work, and combat common misconceptions about safety.
What are SSRIs, and how do they work?
SSRIs are a type of antidepressant most commonly prescribed to people with depression. These safe and effective medicines can help ease symptoms of moderate to severe depression.
SSRI stands for “selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.” Serotonin is one of many chemical messengers in the brain called neurotransmitters, which carry signals from our neurons to the rest of our cells. Serotonin plays a role in many parts of our body, influencing our mood, digestion, nausea, sleep, and more. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and other health issues.
SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, which is the process by which serotonin is reabsorbed by the brain. That means more of it is available to transmit messages between our cells, helping maintain normal levels of serotonin.
There are other types of antidepressants that work differently. SSRIs are usually prescribed first to people with depression because they typically cause fewer side effects.
SSRIs include FDA-approved drugs that people may recognize, like Prozac (Fluoxetine), Lexapro (Escitalopram), and Zoloft (Sertraline).
Why do people take SSRIs?
SSRIs are FDA-approved for the treatment of a number of health issues. Doctors most commonly prescribe them to help people with depression and anxiety feel better and manage their symptoms, especially for people who have already tried lifestyle changes, like a new diet and exercise routines, and stress management.
SSRIs are typically prescribed in conjunction with other types of treatments, such as behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and other types of therapies. SSRIs can also be prescribed to treat other conditions, including bulimia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Are SSRIs safe?
Yes, SSRIs are safe and have been extensively researched and prescribed to millions of people for decades. SSRIs support healthier and happier lifestyles for many people with depressive symptoms.
Like any medication, SSRIs may have some rare side effects. People who are experiencing symptoms of depression should work closely with a healthcare professional to determine whether SSRIs are the best course of treatment. In addition, medical professionals will check in regularly to mitigate the known risks of taking SSRIs.
Some studies have linked SSRIs to increased suicidal thinking and behavior in adolescents. While these risks are real and should be monitored by a healthcare professional, depression can also cause suicidal thinking. SSRIs can also help improve depressive symptoms, such as suicidal thinking.
Are SSRIs addictive?
SSRIs are not habit-forming. However, stopping antidepressant treatment suddenly can cause withdrawal-like symptoms, sometimes called discontinuation symptoms. These symptoms may include restlessness, nausea, dizziness, or flu-like symptoms.
People who want to stop taking an SSRI can do so safely with the support of a healthcare professional. People taking SSRIs should work with their healthcare professional to safely decrease their dose rather than stopping abruptly.
What should people expect when they start taking SSRIs?
People starting SSRIs should work closely with a healthcare professional for evaluation, diagnosis, and a treatment plan. SSRIs can take six weeks or more to take full effect. Some people may experience improvements in sleep, eating habits, self-care, mood, and more within a few days of taking SSRIs.
Symptoms to monitor when starting SSRIs include headaches, upset stomach, and sleepiness. These initial symptoms typically improve in two weeks.
SSRI treatment timelines vary and are based on individual needs and experiences. Some people can work with a healthcare professional to slowly stop SSRIs when their depressive symptoms improve, and others may take SSRIs indefinitely to support their mental health and wellbeing.
Sources:
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022, March 18). Serotonin: What is it, function & levels. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, September 11). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825
- National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). What to expect from your medications. https://www.nami.org/treatments-and-approaches/mental-health-medications/what-to-expect-from-your-medications/
- Smith, T. (2025, April 14). The facts – and misconceptions – about antidepressant medications. UCHealth Today.https://www.uchealth.org/today/the-facts-and-misconceptions-about-antidepressant-medications/
