4.7.1.1 Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

• What is the name of the structure labeled as "COMT" in the image?

  COMT
• What is illustrated in the simplified diagram of serotonin action?

  • Serotonin is released from the sender cell
  • It is reabsorbed by the receiver cell
  • SSRIs block this reabsorption, increasing synaptic serotonin
• If a patient is experiencing obsessive thoughts, which medication might be prescribed?

  Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
• What is the mechanism of action of SSRIs?

  • SSRIs block serotonin reuptake
  • Increases serotonin levels in the synapse
  • Helps regulate mood and reduce OCD symptoms
• What are the key components involved in the reuptake and metabolism of 5-HT (serotonin) shown in the image?

  • 5-HT1B autoreceptor
  • 5-HT re-uptake transporter
  • Mitochondria
  • MAO
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "Vesicle" in the image?

  Vesicle
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "Mitochondria" in the image?

  Mitochondria
• What is the effect of SSRIs on serotonin levels in the synapse?

  More serotonin remains in the synapse
• What is often low in people with OCD?

  Serotonin levels
• What are the three main steps of how SSRIs work?

  1. Serotonin is released from vesicles in the presynaptic nerve terminal.
  2. Serotonin is normally reabsorbed via transporters.
  3. SSRIs bind to transporters, preventing reabsorption.
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "5-HT receptor" in the image?

  5-HT receptor
• What happens to serotonin after it sends a signal?

  It gets reabsorbed back into the sending cell
• What does SSRI stand for?

  Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
• What effect do SSRIs have on mood and anxiety?

  They help improve mood and reduce anxiety
• What are the key components of the synaptic cleft shown in the image?

  • Nerve terminal
  • Vesicle
  • COMT
  • 5-HT receptor
• What is the management strategy for each common side effect of SSRIs?

  | Side Effect | Management |

  | --- | --- |

  | Nausea | Eat small meals |

  | Headaches | Stay hydrated |

  | Sleep disturbances | Regular exercise |

  | Sexual dysfunction | Discuss with doctor |

  | Weight changes | Healthy diet |

  | Dry mouth | Drink more water |
• How can weight changes manifest as a side effect of SSRIs?

  Gaining or losing weight
• How can side effects of SSRIs be managed?

  • Diet adjustments: Eat small meals for nausea
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water for dry mouth
  • Regular exercise: Helps with sleep and mood
  • Talk to your doctor: Adjust dosage or suggest solutions
• What should you do if SSRIs side effects persist or become severe?

  Consult your doctor
• Why are SSRIs beneficial for people with OCD?

  They help regulate mood and reduce obsessive thoughts
• What is the primary use of SSRIs?

  To treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• How severe are most side effects of SSRIs?

  Most are mild and disappear within weeks
• How do SSRIs affect serotonin reuptake?


  They block the reabsorption of serotonin
• How do SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) drugs affect the synaptic cleft shown in the image?

  • SSRIs block the 5-HT re-uptake transporter, increasing synaptic 5-HT levels
  • This leads to enhanced 5-HT signaling through the 5-HT receptor
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "5-HT re-uptake transporter" in the image?

  5-HT re-uptake transporter
• What do SSRIs increase in the brain?

  Serotonin levels
• What are the two main ways SSRIs help individuals with OCD?

  • Reduce obsessive thoughts
  • Lessen compulsive behaviors
• How do SSRIs function in the brain?

  They increase serotonin levels by preventing reabsorption
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "Nerve terminal" in the image?

  Nerve terminal
• What are some common side effects of SSRIs?

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Weight changes
  • Dry mouth
• What are sleep disturbances associated with SSRIs?

  Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• What is the role of serotonin in the brain?

  Regulates mood and anxiety
• What is the name of the structure labeled as "5-HT1B autoreceptor" in the image?

  5-HT1B autoreceptor
• What does sexual dysfunction entail as a side effect of SSRIs?

  Reduced libido or difficulty with sexual performance
• What should you do if you experience side effects from SSRIs?

  Talk to your doctor
• What is a common description of headaches as a side effect?

  Persistent or occasional head pain
• What are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors commonly known as?

  SSRIs
• Why do side effects of SSRIs vary among individuals?

  Because each person's body reacts differently
• How does increased serotonin availability affect neurons?

  It enhances signaling between neurons
• What happens to serotonin after it signals?

  It is normally reabsorbed via transporters