SSRIs – Test Prep and Practice Pearls Part 1

In this episode, we break down the pharmacology of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) with a focus on the high-yield clinical pearls pharmacists, medical students, and healthcare professionals need to know. We compare the major SSRIs—including fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram, escitalopram, and fluvoxamine—based on adverse effects, drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, and board exam relevance. Topics include serotonin syndrome, discontinuation syndrome, CYP450 interactions, QT prolongation, sexual dysfunction, weight changes, and SSRI selection in special populations such as older adults and pregnancy. Whether you are preparing for exams, clinical rotations, or looking to sharpen your psychopharmacology knowledge, this episode provides practical and memorable insights into one of the most commonly prescribed medication classes. This is Part 1 of 2.

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Top 200 Drugs Podcast – Medications 146-150

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On this episode of the Top 200 Drugs Podcast, I cover medications 146-150. This podcast includes; sevelamer, dalteparin, sertraline, clonazepam, and irbesartan.

Sevelamer is a phosphate binder that is used to treat hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Dalteparin is a low molecular weight heparin product that is used to prevent and treat blood clots.

Sertraline is a commonly used SSRI that can be helpful in managing depression and anxiety.

Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine that can be used for acute relief of anxiety. Sedation, confusion, and fall risk are potential adverse effects.

Irbesartan is an ARB that can be used for hypertension. Hyperkalemia and angioedema are two adverse effects to be aware of.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!

Sertraline Pharmacology

Sertraline is an SSRI. It has the highest potential to cause diarrhea of any SSRI.

Sertraline is often called “Squirtraline” because of its potential to cause diarrhea.

Sertraline has a much shorter half-life than fluoxetine. I discuss why that may be important in this podcast episode.

I discuss the role of serotonin in platelet aggregation and how sertraline may affect this.

I discuss important drug interactions on the podcast, be sure to check out my latest project which is a 200+ page book on managing drug interactions in primary care.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!