What class of drugs does fluoxetine belong to?

Fluoxetine belongs to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, commonly abbreviated as SSRIs. This class of medications works primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the levels of serotonin available in the synaptic cleft. Enhanced serotonin levels can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

SSRIs are often preferred in clinical practice due to their favorable side effect profile compared to older classes of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Unlike tricyclics, which affect multiple neurotransmitters and can lead to a variety of side effects, SSRIs are more selective in their action. They also have a safer profile in overdose situations compared to monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which require dietary restrictions due to potential interactions with tyramine-containing foods.

The mechanism of SSRIs, particularly their selective action on serotonin, makes fluoxetine an effective treatment choice for conditions like major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and certain anxiety disorders. This unique mechanism sets SSRIs apart, solidifying fluoxetine’s classification in this category.