AEMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)?

1. Citalopram (Celexa)

2. Venlafaxine (Effexor)

3. Amitriptyline (Elavil)

4. Nortriptyline (Pamelor)

The correct answer is: Citalopram (Celexa)

Citalopram (Celexa) is a well-known selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which classifies it as a type of antidepressant that primarily works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness, making SSRIs a common choice for treating depression and anxiety disorders. The mechanism of action of SSRIs like citalopram involves the inhibition of the serotonin transporter, leading to enhanced serotonin signaling in the brain, which is beneficial for symptoms of depression. This distinguishes SSRIs from other types of antidepressants, such as those mentioned in the other choices. Venlafaxine (Effexor), while an antidepressant, is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) rather than an SSRI, as it also affects norepinephrine levels in addition to serotonin. Amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor) are tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) that work through different mechanisms and have broader action, often affecting various neurotransmitters and causing more side effects compared to SSRIs. Thus, citalopram is uniquely identified as a common