Which type of medication do Fluoxetine and Citalopram belong to?

Fluoxetine and Citalopram are classified as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). This class of medications works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the levels of serotonin available for neurotransmission. This mechanism is particularly effective in treating various mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, as serotonin is known to significantly influence mood, emotion, and behavior.

SSRIs are generally favored due to their favorable side effect profile compared to other classes of antidepressants, leading to more widespread use in clinical practice. Conditions treated with SSRIs include major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

Other classes of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, have different mechanisms of action and are generally associated with a higher incidence of side effects or dietary restrictions. Therefore, the classification of Fluoxetine and Citalopram as SSRIs is key to understanding their purpose and use in mental health treatment.