SSRIs
(sertraline, -oxetine)How it works
Block serotonin reuptake → more serotonin at the synapse. Mood lifts over 2–6 weeks, not days.
You'll see
Used for
Side effects
Monitor
- Serotonin syndrome triad: agitation + fever + clonus/tremor — check the MAR for tramadol, linezolid, triptans, MAOIs
- Energy can return before mood lifts — early treatment is a higher-risk window for suicidal action; ask directly
- Sodium in elderly patients on thiazides
🎓 Patient teaching
It takes 2–6 weeks — don't quit at day 10. Don't stop abruptly (discontinuation symptoms). Tell every provider you're on it before new meds are added.
Source: Lehne's Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 11th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
