Regarding SSRIs in treating anxiety, which statement is true?

• A. They increase serotonin by inhibiting reuptake; monitor GI upset, sleep changes, sexual side effects, and suicidality; onset typically 4–6 weeks; taper when stopping.
• B. They decrease norepinephrine and have immediate relief with no monitoring.
• C. They are mood stabilizers with liver toxicity monitoring.
• D. They increase GABA; monitor respiratory function.

Answer: (A)

SSRIs treat anxiety by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, which increases serotonin availability in the brain. This boost helps reduce anxiety symptoms, but the visible benefits usually take weeks to unfold, typically around 4–6 weeks of treatment. Because the onset is delayed, ongoing monitoring is important, including checking for changes in mood or thoughts of self-harm, especially early in treatment and in younger patients. Common side effects to watch for are GI upset, sleep changes, and sexual dysfunction; these often improve over time but may require management. When stopping an SSRI, it’s important to taper gradually to avoid withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms. The other statements don’t fit because they describe effects on norepinephrine, GABA, or classify SSRIs as mood stabilizers with liver toxicity monitoring, none of which accurately describe how SSRIs work or what to monitor.