The SSRI's ( Prozac, Paxil,and Zoloft) all act by blocking the reuptake of a chemical transmitter called serotonin into nerve cell endings. This keeps the concentration of serotonin higher. The net result of this is analogous to taking the static out of a static filled telephone system. Communication becomes easier and requires less effort.
The SSRI's may produce some agitation or headache, and may decrease appetite. Unlike the Tricyclic Antidepressants, which are usually given at bedtime or in multiple doses, the SSRI's are usually given in the morning. All antidepressants are usually given with food.
The SSRI's may take several weeks or more to start acting, as do the tricyclic antidepressants.
There is insufficient information at present to determine which specific SSRI is best for a specific individual, although it is clear that some people respond better to one than another.
| Name | Dosage | Comments | Half-Life |
| Prozac | 10,20 mg capsule | liquid expensive | 84 hrs |
| Zoloft | 50,100 mg caplet | scored | 26 hrs |
| Paxil | 20,30,40 mg caplet | scored | 21 hrs |
Note: All antidepressants in the US carry a black box warning regarding FDA concerns regarding increased suicidal ideation in children and adolescents. This is an area of considerable discussion in the child psychiatric community. You should discuss it with your own doctor.