Final answer:
Fluoxetine and sertraline, which are antidepressants belonging to the class of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), are used to treat anxiety in addition to depression. They work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, thus influencing mood and emotion. THe correct answer is 4) depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluoxetine and sertraline are common antidepressants that are also used to treat anxiety. Both belong to a class of medications known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
These medications function by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the levels of serotonin in the central nervous system.
This mechanism can influence mood and emotion, leading to their use in treating a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, and certain eating disorders.
Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and others such as citalopram (Celexa) and paroxetine (Paxil). SSRIs are known for having fewer anticholinergic side effects compared to older antidepressants like tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors).
Due to their impact on serotonin levels, SSRIs may also be useful in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorders and are considered first-line treatments for major depressive disorder.
While primarily prescribed for depression, the versatility of SSRIs in treating a range of conditions has led to their widespread use in psychiatry.
It is important to note that, like all medications, SSRIs should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Therefore, the correct answer is 4) depression.