SSRI and SNRI drugs are both used to treat depression, but they function differently. SNRI drugs may be more effective, but they tend to produce more side effects.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are used totreat depression. While both medications are antidepressants, there are some key differences between SSRI vs. SNRI drugs.
Article at a Glance:
- Both SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are antidepressant medications.
- SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and relieving symptoms of depression.
- SNRIs increase both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to fight depression, especially when a person doesn’t respond to SSRIs.
- The Norepinephrine affected by SNRIs is connected to motivation, socialization and intelligence.
- A medical professional can help you determine whether a SSRI or SNRI is best for your needs.
How do Reuptake Inhibitors Work?
If you’re considering taking an SSRI or SNRI medication for depression, you might be wondering, “How do reuptake inhibitors work?” These drugs work by blocking the reabsorption of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, making more of them available for transmitting messages in the brain. Reuptake inhibitors increase levels of neurotransmitters associated with emotions.
How SSRIs Work
According tomedical experts, SSRI drugs work by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which increases serotonin levels in the brain over time, thereby relieving symptoms of depression.SSRI drugsare typically the first line of treatment for depression. A doctor may prescribe an SSRI after reviewing symptoms and making a depression diagnosis.
Common SSRIs
There are a variety of SSRI drugs available, and some may work better than others for certain people. A doctor can help determine which SSRI is the best choice for a particular individual. TheNational Institute of Mental Healthreports the following SSRI list:
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- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
- Citalopram
- Paroxetine
- Escitalopram
How SNRIs Work
SNRI drugstreat depressive symptoms by preventing the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, which increases levels of both neurotransmitters in the brain. Increased availability of these neurotransmitters can improve mood and fight off symptoms of depression. SNRI drugs are an option for people who do not respond to SSRIs.
Common SNRIs
Much like SSRIs, a doctor can decide which medication will work best for the patient. Some medications may work differently than others so it’s important for patients to speak with their doctor about any concerns they have. Common SNRI medicationsinclude the following:
- Effexor
- Cymbalta
- Pristiq
- Savella
- Fetzima
Difference in Neurotransmitters
To understand the effects of SSRIs and SNRIs on depressive symptoms, it is important to know the different types of neurotransmitters and their functions and more specifically the differences between serotonin vs. norepinephrine.
According toscientistsfrom the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in emotions, appetite, motor skills, and cognitive functioning.Experts reportthat norepinephrine plays a role in depression because it is involved with motivation, intelligence and socialization.
Side Effects Comparison
While SSRIs and SNRIs provide relief of depressive symptoms, they can also produce side effects. Not everyone will experience the same side effects. Doctors prescribe medications because they believe the benefits will outweigh any unwanted effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) providesa comparisonof SNRI vs SSRI side effects to help people understand the key differences.
Side Effects of SSRIs
Common SSRI side effects can include any of the following:
- Nausea
- Tremors
- Nervous feelings
- Sleep disturbances
- Sexual dysfunction
Gastrointestinal complaints, anxiety, agitation, sexual issues, sleep disturbances, and weight gain are alsocommon unwanted effectsof SSRI medications. Citalopram tends to demonstrate the fewest side effects, whereas paroxetine and fluvoxamine are the most poorly tolerated.
Side Effects of SNRIs
TheFDA reportsthe following SNRI side effects:
- Sleep disturbances
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea/vomiting
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
Adverse reactions that lead to discontinuation of treatmentare more commonwith SNRIs when compared to SSRIs, so it is possible that side effects may be more troublesome with SNRI drugs.
Which One is Best for Me?
The best medicine to treat depression varies from person to person. SNRIs tend to bemore effectivethan SSRIs, but some people will find that SSRIs are more effective for them. A physician or psychiatrist can discuss your health history and symptoms to determine whether an SSRI or SNRI is best for you. He or she will also evaluate potential side effects to determine which medication can be expected to provide the most benefit with the fewest unwanted effects. It is possible that you may have to try a few medications before finding the one that is most beneficial for you.
Key Points: SSRIs vs. SNRIs
A comparison of SSRIs vs. SNRIs is helpful for anyone who may need medication for depression. As discussed, the following are true of these types of medications:
- SSRIs inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, whereas SNRIs inhibit both serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake
- Both SSRIs and SNRIs increase levels of neurotransmitters
- Serotonin is involved in emotions, appetite, motor skills, and cognitive functioning
- Norepinephrine is implicated in motivation, intelligence and socialization
- Both SSRI and SNRI drugs can produce side effects such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, nausea, nervousness, weight gain and sexual dysfunction, but side effects may be more severe with SNRIs
- SNRIs may be slightly more effective than SSRIs, according to the research, but the best medication will vary from person to person
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