Escitalopram and Citalopram belong to which class of medications?

Escitalopram and Citalopram are both classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This class of medications is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain. They work specifically by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin at the synaptic cleft, allowing more serotonin to be available for neurotransmission.

The significance of SSRIs lies in their relatively favorable side effect profile compared to other classes of antidepressants, making them first-line treatments for various mood and anxiety disorders. Identifying the correct class of drugs is crucial for understanding their function and therapeutic use in mental health care.