Difference between ssri, and snri?

Question

theyre both anti depressants and i know what they both stand for but can someone explain the difference in human lamens terms i can understand? like which is more potent? and how they are different in how they will effect you, ive only taken ssri's before but now an snri id really like to know thanks in advance!

Answer 1

This is a ? you should really ask your prescribing doctor.

Answer 2

Okay...as someone said, you should ask your doc, but I will try to explain in non-medical terminology.  The SSRI only works with serotonin -- one neurotransmitter -- or a chemical that helps your brain cells work better -- transmit information between one another -- and the SSRI blocks the reuptake of serotonin so there is not so much there.  The SNRIs block 2 of these chemicals -- norepinephrine and serotonin -- because they both affect depression and when there is enough of them it decreases depression; not enough makes one more depressed.  The blocking of the reuptake of the chemicals makes them more available, but you don't want an excess either -- that can cause serotonin syndrome which can be serious!

As far as which is more potent, it can depend on the individual, some people do better with SSRIs and others with SNRIs.  The SNRIs tend to be considered more potent, since they work with 2 of the chemicals in the brain, instead of just one.  As far as affecting you, if you mean side effects -- that is too individualized by medication and person to begin to comment on.

Hope some of this helps....had to update and make a correction to this.