What is the primary therapeutic use of SSRIs?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are primarily used to alleviate depression and anxiety disorders. They function by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. The increase in serotonin levels helps to improve mood, reduce feelings of anxiety, and lead to a more stable emotional state.

SSRIs have been extensively studied and are often the first line of treatment for various mood disorders due to their efficacy and relatively favorable side effect profile compared to older antidepressants. They are commonly prescribed for conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, among others.

In contrast, treatments for chronic pain typically involve analgesics or specific pain management strategies rather than SSRIs, as they do not directly address pain pathways. Hypertension is generally treated with antihypertensive medications, and the reduction of inflammation is managed with anti-inflammatory agents or corticosteroids, not SSRIs. Thus, understanding the primary therapeutic role of SSRIs helps clarify their place in pharmacological treatment for mental health conditions.