Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants for Parkinson’s-related depression because of their tolerability. These medications can also used to treat anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It often takes four to six weeks of a therapeutic dose for full effect. SSRIs are sometimes combined with other medications such SNRIs and TCAs (see tables below), but such combinations should be used with caution due to a potential for serotonin syndrome. Possible side effects include headache, nausea, insomnia, jitteriness, sexual dysfunction, and weight gain.
Generic Name |
Trade Name |
Notes |
Link |
Patient Assistance |
Brochure |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Escitalopram | Lexapro® | Product Website | |||
Citalopram | Celexa® | Product Website | Allergen Patient Assistance | ||
Fluoxetine | Prozac® | Prescribing Information | Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Assistance | ||
Fluvoxamine | Generic or Luvox® CR | Product Website | Teva Patient Assistance | ||
Paroxetine | Paxil®, Paxil® CR, Pexeva® | Possibly more benefit for anxiety than other SSRIs. Possibly more anticholinergic side effects (e.g. dry mouth, constipation). May cause weight gain. | Product Website | ||
Sertraline | Zoloft® | Product Website | Pfizer Patient Assistance |