Potential indications for the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, citalopram, paroxetine and sertraline. These medications may be effective for a variety of indications. The literature clearly supports their efficacy in some of these conditions in major depression. Data concerning their use in other areas is clearly preliminary but promising. These include reports of treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, atypical depression, panic disorder, premenstrual tension, eating disorders, substance use disorders, chronic pain, dementia, and personality disorders with aggressive or impulsive features. The variety of clinical uses for the SSRIs may compel re-examination of traditional diagnostic categories and theories of how antidepressants work.