Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitors, or SSRIs

AKA: SSRIs

Citalopram (Celexa)

Initial dose: 20mg/day.

Maintenance dose: 20 to 40mg/day.

Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Initial dose: 10mg/day.

Maintenance dose: 10-20mg/day.

Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Initial dose: 20mg/day.

Maintenance dose: 20-60mg/day.

Paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)

Initial dose: 20mg/day, titrated slowly by 10mg a week.

Maintenance dose: 20-50mg/day, as tolerated/needed.

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Common Side Effects:

Nausea

Nervousness, agitation or restlessness

Dizziness

Reduced sexual desire or difficulty reaching orgasm or inability to maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction)

Drowsiness

Insomnia

Weight gain or loss

Headache

Dry mouth

Vomiting

Diarrhea

IMPORTANT: Pharmaceutical companies HAVE to list every side effect reported during clinical trails. So, just because a medication lists a certain side effect DOES NOT MEAN YOU will have it. In fact, most people experience very few side effects and with continued use (2 weeks and beyond), most of the initial side effects dissipate, or resolve completely. Additionally, the dosages listed above are FDA approved for treating Depression in an otherwise healthy Adult. For more specific information in treating your symptoms, consult your doctor.

Tags: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, SSRIs, Citalopram, Celexa, Escitalopram, Lexapro, Fluoxetine, Prozac, Paroxetine, Paxil, Pexeva, Sertraline, Zoloft, Sarafem