Question

Which of the following classes does escitalopram belong to?

• A. Tricyclic antidepressants
• B. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• C. Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
• D. Serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors

Hint:

Antidepressants are divided into classes based on which brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) they affect and how.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: What is Escitalopram?
Escitalopram is a widely used antidepressant drug. It is the S-enantiomer of citalopram.

Step 2: How SSRIs work.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) block the serotonin transporter (SERT) in the presynaptic neuron. This prevents serotonin from being taken back into the cell, so more serotonin remains in the synapse. More serotonin at the synapse improves mood.

Step 3: Why not tricyclic?
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like amitriptyline block reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, plus they block many other receptors (histamine, muscarinic). Escitalopram is highly selective for serotonin only.

Step 4: Why not norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor?
Pure norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (like atomoxetine) block only the norepinephrine transporter. Escitalopram has no significant action on norepinephrine.

Step 5: Why not SNRI?
SNRIs (like venlafaxine, duloxetine) block both serotonin and norepinephrine transporters. Escitalopram blocks only serotonin.

Step 6: Conclusion.
Escitalopram belongs to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class.
Answer: Option (2) — Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors