What is one of the SSRIs used specifically for depression?

• A. Paroxetine (Paxil)
• B. Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
• C. Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
• D. Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Answer: (A)

Paroxetine, marketed under the brand name Paxil, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is specifically indicated for the treatment of depression. SSRIs primarily work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Paroxetine is particularly effective for various anxiety disorders in addition to major depressive disorder, making it a versatile option within the category of SSRIs.

The other medications mentioned have different mechanisms and indications. Desvenlafaxine, for example, is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which, while used for depression, is not categorized as an SSRI. Dextroamphetamine is a stimulant primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy rather than depression. Bupropion, on the other hand, is an atypical antidepressant that primarily influences the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine rather than acting exclusively on serotonin. This distinction further emphasizes why Paroxetine is specifically recognized as an SSRI for treating depression, as it uniquely targets serotonin reuptake.