: any of a class of antidepressants (such as fluoxetine) that inhibit the inactivation of serotonin by blocking its reuptake by presynaptic neuron endings

called also selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Examples of SSRI in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Duloxetine, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is prescribed for anxiety and depression, and can also be used to treat nerve pain for people with diabetes, the Mayo Clinic notes. Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2024 There are still a lot of unknowns about post-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) syndrome. R. Eric Thomas, The Mercury News, 18 Sep. 2024 Paxil, also known by the generic name paroxetine, and Lexapro, also known by the generic name escitalopram, are members of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication class. Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2024 Some people also develop dry mouth while taking an SSRI, so keeping fluids up can help that, too. Kathleen Felton, SELF, 25 June 2024 Many of us are also looking for ways to increase serotonin without taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, known as an SSRI. Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 22 Dec. 2023 Additionally, these supplements, which include 5-HT, St. John’s Wart, and others, should not be taken along with an SSRI. Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 22 Dec. 2023 If treatment without medication is unhelpful, or specific behavioral programs are not available, or the person prefers medication, then SSRI medicines, such as fluoxetine or citalopram, are often used. Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 5 Sep. 2023 Your doctor may prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or another type of anti-anxiety medication. Marisa Cohen, Good Housekeeping, 26 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1991, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of SSRI was in 1991

Dictionary Entries Near SSRI

Cite this Entry

“SSRI.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/SSRI. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

: any of a class of antidepressants (as fluoxetine or sertraline) that inhibit the inactivation of serotonin by blocking its reuptake by presynaptic nerve cell endings

called also selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

compare snri
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