Both are known as reuptake inhibitors.
SDI Productions / Getty Images
What Are SSRIs and SNRIs?
Reuptake inhibitors help regulate neurotransmitters by blocking their reabsorption.
SDI Productions / Getty Images
Reabsorption takes place after a signal has been transmitted in the brain.
Once the neurotransmitter has completed its task, it is reabsorbed back into the neuron.
Different neurotransmitters affect different functions of the brain.
SSRI medications include:
SNRI medications include:
Neither SSRIs nor SNRIs are inherently better than the other.
Which medication works best varies based on the individual and the condition it is used for.
Uses of SSRIs vs. SNRIs
SSRIs and SNRIs are used to treat various mental health conditions.
They are sometimes also used to treat other types of medical problems such as pain disorders or gastrointestinal conditions.
Both SSRIs and some SNRIs help with anxiety.
SSRIs are often prescribed as the first option, but both types of medications are effective for treating anxiety.
The one that works best depends largely on the individual.
It can take from two weeks to two months for the benefits of the medication to take full effect.
SSRI Dosages
Serotonin Syndrome
Too much serotonin can cause a condition calledserotonin syndrome.
This condition can range from mild to life-threatening.
Consult your pharmacist or medication package insert for more specific details.
You may want to contact your healthcare provider for individualized instructions.
You should not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Taking reuptake inhibitors with food may help preventnausea.
Unless otherwise specified, these medications should be:
Keep medication out of reach and sight of children.
You should also contact your prescriber, as abruptly stopping a medication like duloxetinecan be dangerous.
Your healthcare provider will prescribe a medication with these side effects in mind.
Which antidepressant has the fewest side effects?
Suicidality
In 2004, the FDA issued aboxed warningon SSRIs regarding their use in children and teens.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call911.
Stopping Reuptake Inhibitors
You should not stop taking your medication abruptly or miss several doses.
Doing so can cause unpleasant side effects.
It is important to discuss any changes, including stopping medication use, with your healthcare provider.
Summary
SSRIs and SNRIs are medications that increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in your brain.
They are often prescribed to treat depression and other mental health conditions.
SSRIs block the absorption of serotonin, while SNRIs block the absorption of serotonin and norepinephrine.
A healthcare provider can help you make the best-informed decision on which medication is right for you.
Don’t stop taking any of these medications without talking to your healthcare provider.
2017;24(4):1282-1311. doi:10.3758/s13423-016-1220-5
National Health Service.Overview - SSRI antidepressants.
2014;11(3-4):37-42.
American Academy of Family Physicians.How to safely take antidepressants.
National Health Service.Dosage - selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Food and Drug Administration.What to Know and Do About Possible Nitrosamines in Your Medication.
2018;54(2):101-112. doi:10.4068/cmj.2018.54.2.101
National Health Service.Cautions - selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
2016;3(12):1138-1146. doi:10.1016/S2215-0366(16)30264-4
