Which class selectively inhibits serotonin reuptake, leading to potentiation of serotonergic neurotransmission?

Which class selectively inhibits serotonin reuptake, leading to potentiation of serotonergic neurotransmission?

• A. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• B. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• C. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• D. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Answer: (B)

The concept tested is how blocking serotonin reuptake enhances serotonergic signaling. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors inhibit the serotonin transporter (SERT) that normally reabsorbs serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. By blocking SERT, these drugs raise serotonin levels in the synapse, allowing more 5-HT to activate post-synaptic receptors and thus potentiating serotonergic neurotransmission. They are specifically selective for serotonin reuptake, unlike other classes. SNRIs also block norepinephrine reuptake, so they’re not purely selective for serotonin. MAOIs increase overall monoamine levels by inhibiting breakdown rather than blocking reuptake. TCAs inhibit reuptake of multiple monoamines and interact with various receptors, producing broader effects. So the description fits SSRIs precisely.

The concept tested is how blocking serotonin reuptake enhances serotonergic signaling. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors inhibit the serotonin transporter (SERT) that normally reabsorbs serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. By blocking SERT, these drugs raise serotonin levels in the synapse, allowing more 5-HT to activate post-synaptic receptors and thus potentiating serotonergic neurotransmission.

They are specifically selective for serotonin reuptake, unlike other classes. SNRIs also block norepinephrine reuptake, so they’re not purely selective for serotonin. MAOIs increase overall monoamine levels by inhibiting breakdown rather than blocking reuptake. TCAs inhibit reuptake of multiple monoamines and interact with various receptors, producing broader effects. So the description fits SSRIs precisely.