Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) Efficiency, and Comparison to Alternative Antidepressant Treatments

Abstract

Background: Depression is one of the most important causes of disability-adjusted life years. Currently, the majority of patients are treated with SSRIs. However, the effectiveness of SSRIs is questionable. Method: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the pharmacotherapy treatment selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in patients diagnosed with major depression. This was achieved by comparison to other methods of antidepressant treatment such as, selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and psychotherapy. Results: The majority of patients were taking SSRIs for treatment of depression alone or in combination with other antidepressant medications. More than half those patients showed pharmacological effectiveness. However, patients who were taking other types of antidepressants also experienced reduction in their symptoms. Conclusion: The analysis of data that was collected from an outpatient mental health private practice, showed no advantage in effectiveness of SSRIs compared with other treatment options.