Question

Which mechanism of action is descriptive of SSRIs?

a. Potentiation of norepinephrine and serotonin activity by blocking their reuptake
b. Increasing concentrations of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine by monoamine oxidase enzyme inhibition
c. Selective blockade of serotonin reabsorption
d. Dopamine receptor blockade

Answer 1

SSRIs work by selectively blocking the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, resulting in increased levels of serotonin in the synaptic cleft and helping to treat depression.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mechanism of action that is descriptive of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) is the selective blockade of serotonin reabsorption. SSRIs function by blocking the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, which increases the level of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. This leads to the potentiation of serotonin activity, but not norepinephrine. Common SSRIs include Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft, which have gained popularity in the treatment of depression due to their effectiveness and reduced side effects when compared to other classes of antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors.